STEP 6: SEEK PROFESSIONAL HELP
JOIN OUR NEWSLETTER
Receive custom tools to help you manage your condition and get the latest in bladder and bowel health from NAFC!
STEP 6: SEEK PROFESSIONAL HELP
Sometimes, even the most persistent plan of action may not alleviate the symptoms of incontinence. If after making behavioral modifications based on your triggers, completing 6-8 weeks of exercises, and retraining your bladder or bowel you are still struggling with managing your incontinence, it may be time to seek professional help through a physician or PT. Be sure to bring your completed bladder or bowel diary, your plan of action, and any other notes you may have about your self-management with you to your appointment. Your efforts have not been in vain and all your records will help paint a more accurate and personalized portrait of your condition to your doctor, which will help him create a customized treatment plan for you moving forward. Your doctor may recommend further evaluation or sessions with a physical therapist, and, in some cases, may even discuss surgical options.
USING A CARE PATHWAY
Many patients find a Care Pathway very useful in determining an appropriate treatment plan. A Care Pathway can serve as a road map to managing your symptoms, and it can take some of the guesswork out of determining your next step if your current treatment isn’t working for you. Click on the image of the Care Pathway for Overactive Bladder at right for a better sense of the route that treatment typically takes. You can even download this tool and take it to your doctor to discuss your options together.
Speaking of doctors, if you don’t already have a healthcare practitioner to help you with your incontinence symptoms, visit the NAFC Specialist Locator to find one in your area. And, download this free brochure for tips on talking with your doctor and making the most of your discussion.
RELATED ARTICLES
Patient Perspective: Allison’s Story
I’m a survivor. I’ve lived through the joy (and scars) of giving birth to three boys, experienced two job layoffs, suffered through one divorce, and
Did Your Mom Or Grandma Talk About Bladder Health With You?
We encourage an open dialogue about bladder and bowel concerns for two reasons: being transparent can help future generations learn how to best care for their bodies and being honest about a health concern can foster a community of family and friends who keep you accountable to a treatment plan.
When’s the last time you spoke to your family about bladder health?
Pelvic Floor Exercises Specifically For Men
As a physical therapist specializing in pelvic floor rehabilitation, we are referred to as women’s health physical therapists. But men have pelvic floors and can have concerns too.
Navigating the Care Pathway for Overactive Bladder and Incontinence
A comprehensive treatment plan for overactive bladder and urge incontinence is essential for improvement in bladder leaks. Learn how to navigate a care pathway for
