Incontinence. It’s not something we like to talk about, but it can happen to all of us. More than 25 million people live with some type of incontinence every day. And for most of those people, it takes them an average of about 6-7 years just to talk to their doctor about the problem. That’s 6-7 years of living with leaks. 6-7 years hiding accidents from loved ones. 6-7 years trying to find ways to cope with the condition. 6-7 years of letting the condition limit relationships with friends, family, and work. And it’s 6-7 years of allowing incontinence to control you.
At NAFC, we hear from a lot of people with questions about their condition; how to manage it, how to stop it, and what products to try. But the one emotion that rings true in everyone is shame and embarrassment. Women and men are so very ashamed of this condition that it keeps them from getting close to others. It causes them to avoid doing the things they once loved. It prevents them from getting help for their bladder leaks. It keeps them from living a life without leaks.
NAFC Can Help
If you’ve spent any time on our site, you know that we have tools to help you. There are management options available and new alternatives coming out practically every day that you can try to overcome this condition. But for all the absorbent pads, devices, medications, exercises, and procedures that are out there, none of them will do a thing if you’re not willing to admit that you have this problem and that you need to do something about it.
Sometimes, the best motivation comes from other sufferers. So over the next two months, we’re rounding up stories from both women and men to help you see inside the lives of others like you. To help you know that you’re not alone. And to show you that once you find the courage to do something about incontinence, your life can be so much fuller. Many of our sufferers wish they had taken action much sooner. They wish they had talked with someone about the condition: their spouse, a friend, or their doctor. We hope that in reading their stories, you’ll find the courage to speak up about incontinence and to do something about it.
So please stay with us and hear from these brave women and men who have shared their stories. And who knows – maybe from them, you’ll find the strength to be the next voice.
Throughout May, during Women’s Health Month, we’ll be sharing stories of women who have overcome incontinence. In June, we’ll share all of our stories from men. We’re excited you’re here, and can’t wait for you to hear what these folks have to say. (See all the stories here.)
In the meantime, feel free to join in on the conversation with others living with incontinence on the NAFC message boards!
