Frequently Asked Questions
Will I definitely pee on myself the first time? Can I avoid that?
Follow the instructions, keep your cool, and you may have no problem! It’s very possible to stay dry for your first rodeo. This is especially true if you get the right device for your body and situation. What you DON’T want to do is get discouraged and beat yourself up if pee spill happens. If it doesn’t, great! if it does, no worries. See also the Troubleshooting section.
Are there devices more specifically designed to affirm gender?
Definitely! I do not review the realistic-penis and/or packer STPs on this site because I am not trans, I’ve never experienced gender dysphoria, and I don’t feel qualified to evaluate them. But there’s a lot of good info out there! Here’s a starting place (that is NSFW): Transguy Supply. Elsewhere on that site, the pStyle is suggested! pStyle is gender-neutral and also provides flesh-toned options. Right now, the STP market is oriented towards cis women. Many of the devices reviewed on THIS site are labeled as “for women” or “made for women.” A lot of times they’re bright pink or purple (although I’ve tried to pick diverse colors). My hope is just that you find one that feels good to use, isn’t triggering, and isn’t complicated, either here or elsewhere.
If you’d like to help me make the site more inclusive by providing content on gender-affirming STPs or the trans or intersex experience, reach out out at gostandingup@gmail.com
Does pubic hair matter?
It only matters if you are using a device that requires a tight seal—none of the ones described here do, to my knowledge.
Does being on my period matter?
No, not in my experience. It makes no difference to the functionality. If you use tampons, you might want to be sure to get the string when you squeegee, but basically no.
Can kids use an STP?
There is nothing sexual or adult about STPs, so yes, kids can use them. Sanigirl makes disposable pee funnels for kids ages three and up. (FYI: these are very girly.) If you want your child to use a reusable STP, just pay attention to the size of the device.
Can I use an STP sitting down (like in a car, or if I am sick)?
Pibella is marketed as being ok to use sitting down, and the Pibella Comfort (which I don’t review) is specifically for sitting and lying down. Freshette also advertises itself as being for use sitting down, and you can buy versions with a much longer tube for bedrest and wheelchairs. There are also AFAB urinals for those who cannot get out of bed, and pee bags for car rides, neither of which I review here. You’ll probably notice I don’t mention the “sitting” question in my STP Review section. This is because I have never been able to make it work for me! If you can pee sitting down with an STP, please tell me how!
I’d love to be corrected here. If you have positive experiences with using STPs while sitting down, let me know! gostandingup@gmail.com
Why do you endorse Amazon?
As of now, Amazon is the easiest place to read and compare testimonials from a variety of people regarding different STPs. A few of the STPs I review are only available on Amazon. No, it isn’t ideal. It’s just easy. If you hate Amazon (fair), of course you can buy directly from an STP’s main site, which I link under my reviews.
I feel a little self-conscious about using an STP! What do I say about it if people ask?
First of all, how you pee is no one’s business but your own. Do what you want! But if you do want to talk about your STP with a partner or friends, here are some thoughts:
If you want to provide an explanation to prevent questions or confusion, it will be less awkward if you keep it brief and casual. Doesn’t have to be a big deal.
If you do get questions, and you feel like answering them, a clear explanation of why you have an STP usually works. (“I don’t want poison ivy on my butt,” “gas station bathrooms are gross,” “this uniform is tricky to take off,” etc.) Honestly anyone with further questions is being willfully obtuse.
If your “why” is just that you prefer to pee standing up, it feels good, it’s fun, etc, then remember that that is a good enough reason! Own it. “It’s just what I prefer” is sufficient.
If you have more questions, email me at gostandingup@gmail.com