Edit Content
Search
[give_form id="19690"]

Patient Perspective: Audra’s Story

It took me 8 years to talk to my doctor about my bladder leaks. Allow me to let that sink in for a moment – EIGHT YEARS!!  

Think about how much happens during a span of eight years. For me, I had 2 children, switched jobs once, and had a cross country move in the middle of it all.

You’d think that with all of those life changes I’d be able to address something as simple as bladder leaks. I had a million and one reasons why I put it off for so long:  “It will heal after I recover from childbirth.” “It’s not so bad that I can’t manage it.” “I can just wear a pad.” “I’ll just bring along an extra set of clothes with me in the car just in case.” “I’m usually near a bathroom so should be able to make it most of the time.”

On and on the excuses went. But as the years went by, I got sick of just “dealing with it.” I finally made an appointment with my doctor and felt silly when I told him how long I had been suffering (needlessly).  He first set me up with a Physical Therapist to work on strengthening my pelvic floor, and also prescribed me a medication to take. The PT helped me a lot and after nearly 6 months of regular therapy, I was able to quit the medication altogether. Now I just go for regular checkups, but keep up the exercises at home on my own.

I feel stronger and leak-free, but most of all, I feel in control of my own life again. I’ll never let something like the fear of embarrassment prevent me from getting the medical attention I need again.

Audra S., Missoula, MT

Comments

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

Related Articles

Dr. Syan Podcast OAB

The Ins-and-Outs of OAB

When is that sudden urge to go so bad that you should seek out medical help? How can I tell the difference between a UTI and OAB? How much water should I be drinking every day? Can a woman actually visit a urologist? 

These are some of the important questions that we address with today’s guest, Dr. Raveen Syan. She’s an associate professor of clinical urology at the University of Miami’s Miller School of Medicine and a specialist in a number of women’s pelvic health issues, including the treatment of stress urinary incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse and overactive bladder. 

Podcast Webpage Image - Don't Push

Don’t Push When You Pee!

We’ve all been there. The baby’s crying upstairs, so you need to speed up your bathroom visit to get to her quickly. You’re racing to your next meeting, and you only have a minute to stop for the bathroom. You’re late for your doctor’s appointment, but you just need to make a pit stop before you leave. Sometimes having to pee gets in the way of our daily lives.

If you’re someone who’s moving so fast that you push when you pee, you could be setting yourself up for some trouble down the road. Listen today to learn more about why you shouldn’t be forcing things.

Northshore Blog Myths

Busting Common Myths About Incontinence

Did you know that incontinence is more common than diabetes and heart disease combined? Yet, many who experience it feel isolated, embarrassed, or misunderstood due to persistent myths and stigmas. Regardless of age, gender identity, or background, learning the facts about incontinence can empower you to reclaim your confidence and live with dignity.

Dr. Syan Podcast OAB

The Ins-and-Outs of OAB

When is that sudden urge to go so bad that you should seek out medical help? How can I tell the difference between a UTI and OAB? How much water should I be drinking every day? Can a woman actually visit a urologist? 

These are some of the important questions that we address with today’s guest, Dr. Raveen Syan. She’s an associate professor of clinical urology at the University of Miami’s Miller School of Medicine and a specialist in a number of women’s pelvic health issues, including the treatment of stress urinary incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse and overactive bladder.