Embarrassment for personal incontinence is understandable and can cause you to put off seeing a doctor. First, remember – you are not alone. One source says women wait an average of more than 6 years before finally seeking help for their incontinence. On the average only 10% of women who experience urinary incontinence will seek professional medical help.
“This is sad, because there are many treatment options available,” says McLeod Gynecologist, Dr. Gary Emerson. “We’re trained to deal with your problem professionally. Bladder control problems are a common issue. Fifty percent of women will experience urinary incontinence during their lifetime. Those numbers increase as women age with one in three by age 60 experiencing some type of bladder control problem. Urinary incontinence is not a disease of old age as women as young as 20 experience bladder control and leakage problems.”
Once you’ve made an appointment, the right preparation BEFORE you see the doctor will help speed your diagnosis and treatment. Here’s a short list of 5 “homework” assignments:
Final thought. When visiting with the doctor, listen carefully. Take notes. Even take a friend. Sometimes, we don’t hear or understand everything the doctor is explaining. An extra set of ears can’t hurt. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Women should take control of a leaky bladder and not let it control them.
To find a physician, click here.
Sources: National Institutes of Health, American Urogynecologic Society, U.S Department of Health & Hyman Services Office on Women’s Health, Bladder & Bowel Foundation, my