Talking about incontinence is hard for many people. Even talking to a doctor can be challenging: on average, people wait 7 years before even seeking help for this condition. But sometimes opening up can be the best thing you can do to begin the process of moving past your embarrassment and moving on to treatment.
But how do you start? And whom do you start with? Our advice is simple: find someone you trust and whom you think will be supportive. Many times this is a spouse or a partner, or a close friend or family member. You don’t need to shout about your bladder leaks from the rooftops – often just telling one person helps to unleash the burden you’ve been carrying around and can help give voice to the anxiety and worry that has been racing around in your head.
Here are some great tips to follow when starting the conversation:
1. Set the conversation up by letting them know that you need their support. Some ways to start the conversation might be:
-
“I’ve been dealing with a health issue for a while and could really use someone to talk to about it. Can I talk to you?”
-
“I have a condition that’s really been getting me down. Do you have a moment to talk?”
-
“As a close friend/spouse/family member, I know that you are supportive of me. Can I talk openly to you about an issue I’ve been experiencing?”
2. Be open. If you’re going to talk to them, then make sure you’re being open and honest. We know talking to others about your own bladder leakage can be hard, but if you’re really talking to someone close to you, they’ve likely suspected something was up for a while. Let them know not just the issue, but how it’s been making you feel.
3. Tell them what you need from them. Are you talking to them because you don’t want to hide the problem anymore? Do you need some help researching treatment options? Are you asking for their advice on what to do? Or do you just want a sounding board to help get some things off your chest? Whatever the case may be, help them be there for you by letting them know what you expect from them.
Opening up can be hard, but it’s healthy to talk about the things that are bothering you. And, if you feel that you don’t have anyone close to you to discuss the issue (or even if you do!), make an appointment with your doctor. He or she will be able to give you sound advice and treatment recommendations. And, it’s likely that he’s been in that seat before with other patients, so he knows just what you’re going through.
Need help finding a physician? Visit our Find A Specialist Tool!
