Women worry a lot about peeing during sex—but how often does that even happen?

Let’s just be honest for a sec: Sex isn’t like it is in the movies. Like, not even in the slightest. In the majority of onscreen scenes of fiery passion, there’s little if any time dedicated to the awkward moments of finding a condom or dealing with body-image issues. But IRL lovers have some worries in the bedroom.

A survey from Pure Romance, a company that hosts sex-accessory parties, that looked into the sex habits of 2,000 Americans, provided insight into both men and women’s top between-the-sheets fears. While men said they feared not lasting long enough or being able to maintain an erection, women were caught up in thinking about what their bodies look like and hoping they don’t smell bad. But the standout issue women reported worrying about was having to go to the bathroom during sex. And that’s something Adeeti Gupta, MD, founder of Walk In GYN Care in New York City, says you probably don’t need to be too concerned about.

Unless you have a full bladder or deal with urinary incontinence issues on a regular basis from a weakened pelvic floor, there’s a good chance your body is just sending you mixed signals.

When you’re having sex, the friction that occurs can sometimes confuse the sensations that are going on down there, making you feel like you’re going to pee. Also, that urge might just be female ejaculation or due to the natural moisture that occurs: “‘Squirting’ during an intense orgasm may be confused with peeing by some women,” Dr. Gupta says. “Excessive normal vaginal secretions during sex may also make you feel super-wet down there, giving you a sensation that you might have leaked.” But, unless you have a full bladder or deal with urinary incontinence issues on a regular basis from a weakened pelvic floor, there’s a good chance your body is just sending you mixed signals, she says.

It’s also worth noting that your vagina and bladder are located in super-close proximity. So, the act of sex can unintentionally put pressure on your bladder that can make you feel like you’re going to pee. But if sexy-time tinkling is a fear of yours, maybe go to the bathroom before climbing in bed so you can fully enjoy yourself worry-free.

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