I am an adult bed wetter. Those are hard words to say for a 52 year old man. I first started experiencing nighttime leaks when I was in my teens. Just once in awhile. I’d laugh it off with my brother.
But as I grew further into adulthood and it kept happening, I knew it was no longer a laughing matter. I found that the problem worsened when I went away to college and I took great pains to keep it hidden from my roommate. I dared not buy protection from the stores near my campus for fear of someone seeing me, so I would drive an hour away just to pick up whatever absorbent pads I could find, which usually were not a great fit and didn’t do a lot to protect me. I put blankets on my bed to absorb the leaks, but they didn’t help mask the odor.
After college I got my own place, without roommates, so I wouldn’t have to worry so much about them finding out. I finally made the decision to speak to a doctor at age 30 – nearly 14 years after suffering from this problem on and off.
While I still don’t know the reason I wet the bed, my doctor helped me find resources to manage the condition. After trying several different absorbent products, I finally found one that fits well and is specific to nighttime use, so I rarely wake up anymore with leaks.
I’ve also discovered that I’m not the only one out there with this problem – NAFC’s message boards have really helped me connect with others and sharing with them has been such a relief. After years of embarrassment and isolation, I’m so thankful to have found help and to know that I’m not alone.
Ethan S., San Jose, CA
