Incontinence is a common condition that millions of people around the world experience, but it can still be challenging to talk about. 

Understanding how to bring up incontinence with your doctor is the first step toward improving your quality of life.

This blog will guide you through the essential questions to ask for an effective incontinence diagnosis and treatment plan, provide tips for how and where to seek support, and highlight the importance of professional medical advice.

Preparing for Your Doctors Visit

When preparing for your doctor's appointment, jot down any symptoms you've been experiencing, their frequency, and potential triggers.

This preparation will make the incontinence discussion more fruitful and focused.

Essential Questions to Guide Your Incontinence Discussion

• What could be causing my symptoms? There are many potential causes of incontinence, ranging from lifestyle factors to underlying health issues. A clear understanding of these causes can pave the way for targeted treatment.
• What tests are involved in an incontinence diagnosis? Expect to discuss possible diagnostic tests such as urine tests, blood tests, and maybe more detailed assessments like urodynamic testing.
• What are my treatment options? Treatment for incontinence can vary widely, from lifestyle changes and physical therapy to medications and surgery. Discuss all the possibilities to find the best fit for your needs.
• How can I manage symptoms now? Ask for immediate strategies to manage symptoms effectively until a long-term solution is implemented. These might include dietary tips, scheduling bathroom visits, use of incontinence aids, bladder training or pelvic exercises.
• What lifestyle changes could improve my condition? Oftentimes, adjustments to diet, fluid intake, and physical activity can significantly affect incontinence. Personalised advice from your doctor can be incredibly beneficial.
• Should I see a specialist? Sometimes getting a referral to a specialist like a urologist or a gynaecologist who offers more dedicated incontinence support can be helpful.

Next Steps After Speaking to Your Doctor

• Complete Recommended Tests: Make sure to follow through with any tests your doctor orders - these are crucial for a precise incontinence diagnosis.
• Implement Lifestyle Changes: Start making the advised lifetyle adjustments. These changes can be powerful in managing incontinence effectively.
• Talk to Your Friends and Family: Talking to your friends and family for support can take a great deal of the stress and anxiety away. It's a healthy reminder that you are not alone!
• Maintain a Symptom Diary: Keep track of your symptoms, fluid intake, diet and any other factors that might affect your condition. This diary will be invaluable for ongoing medical advice and treatment adjustments.
• Keep Regular Appointments: Managing incontinence is often an ongoing process, involving regular updates and adjustments to treatments. Keep in touch with your doctor to track your progress.

Where to Find Additional Incontinence Support

Living with incontinence can be challenging, especially when newly diagnosed. But don’t worry, there’s a wide range of resources available to help manage the condition and improve your quality of life. 

Here’s a summary of the key supports you can tap into:

• Educational Materials: Organisations like the National Association for Continence and the Urology Care Foundation offer comprehensive resources including pamphlets, articles, and video tutorials that provide valuable information on understanding and managing incontinence.
• Community Forums: Online forums offer a platform to connect with others experiencing similar challenges. These communities are great for sharing personal experiences, and tips, and receiving emotional support, making the journey less isolating.
• Expert Advice: Many health organisations provide direct access to incontinence experts through Q&A sessions, webinars, and live chats. These experts offer reliable advice on treatments, products, and managing symptoms effectively.
• Workshops & Seminars: Conducted by health organisations and patient advocacy groups, these events cover various topics such as nutrition, physical therapies, and stress management techniques that can help minimise incontinence symptoms.
• Support Groups: Both in-person and virtual support groups offer a supportive environment to discuss experiences and exchange practical tips for managing incontinence. They can often be accessed through hospitals, community centres, or specific health organisations.
• Health Care Social Workers: These professionals can help navigate the healthcare system, connect with local support services, and find financial aid for treatments.

The Bladder and Bowl Community can offer many of these services such as information and advice, online community and support and medical advice. They also offer the ‘Just Can’t Wait Toilet Card’, which allows those needing urgent access to bathroom facilities while out in public, helping reduce the stress and inconvenience caused by incontinence.

ConfidenceClub also has your back both while you learn to navigate incontinence and beyond! We want to minimise the impact of incontinence and get you back to enjoying your life!

Whether it's pads, guards, pants, or slips, our Dailee range has everything you need. Crafted from ultra-soft, breathable materials, complete with active odour control, ensuring comfort and freshness all day long!