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
You DON’T have to leak after prostate cancer treatment
In this episode, Dr. Eric Rovner addresses a common fear that men have about prostate cancer treatment: incontinence. Drawing on his clinical experience, Dr. Rovner explains that treatment does not automatically mean a lifetime of bladder leakage. In fact, only a small percentage of patients experience long-lasting symptoms. He discusses why temporary changes in bladder control can occur, what factors influence recovery and – most importantly – what men can do before and after treatment to reduce their risk and regain control. Our conversation offers clarity, reassurance and actionable guidance for men navigating prostate cancer care.
Ask The Doc: What’s The Best Pelvic Floor Product For Bladder Leaks?
Question: I know there are lots of pelvic floor products on the market. How do I know which pelvic floor product is best for getting
Three Generations Of Incontinence
Sometimes it’s hard to open up with others about what’s happening with our health. But doing so can help you gain valuable insights into your
Managing Overnight Incontinence for a Better Night’s Sleep
A good night’s sleep plays an important role in maintaining overall health, comfort, and emotional well-being. For individuals managing incontinence, nighttime can sometimes feel uncertain. Overnight leaks may interrupt sleep, create concern about bedding or clothing, and make mornings feel more stressful than restful. These experiences are common, and they are something many adults navigate at different stages of life.