Fear of passing wind in public (phartophobia)

Phartophobia is a jokey name for the fear of passing wind in public. The worry behind it is real for some people, who may avoid quiet meetings, lifts, exams or close contact with others in case it happens.

About this phobia

Worry about passing wind in public is a social anxiety theme, but this word is not a recognised phobia. The name is a play on a familiar rude word rather than a classical root. Fears of embarrassment, of losing control of the body in public and of being judged are well documented.

What it feels like

• Tensing the stomach for long stretches in company
• Choosing noisy places or seats near the door to feel safer
• Replaying a quiet moment afterwards and worrying others noticed

Explore more unusual fears in the rare phobias A to Z, or browse the common phobias.

Common questions

Could a fear of passing wind be linked to a health problem?

Often the fear is about embarrassment rather than the body. Even so, if you have real symptoms such as frequent wind, pain or changes in bowel habits, check them with a GP. Ruling out a physical cause can also ease the worry.

How can you help?

I use hypnotherapy and NLP to change how your mind responds to the thing you fear, so the old alarm stops going off. Sessions are one to one over Zoom, and you get a recording of the hypnosis to listen to afterwards.

How many sessions will I need?

Many clients notice a real difference after one 90 minute session. If the fear goes back a long way, three sessions gives us room to make the change stick.

Ready to start?

Book a £49 consultation call and we’ll talk through your fear, or take the free suitability test first.

See all session options and prices