How long can you not urinate?

It is generally recommended that healthy adults urinate at least once every 3 to 4 hours, and to avoid holding urine for longer than 6 to 8 hours to maintain bladder health and prevent urinary tract infections (UTIs). Holding urine for extended periods can cause the bladder to overfill and stretch, leading to bladder muscle damage and weakening of the pelvic floor muscles. This can result in urinary incontinence or difficulty emptying the bladder.