Talking To Loved Ones About Urinary Incontinence—How To Go About It

Whether you’re experiencing urinary incontinence or a loved one is, talking about it can never be easy. But as difficult as these conversations are, they are sometimes necessary.

Offering and having support during this frustrating condition can make all the difference in your recovery journey. While a loved one can’t exactly help find bladder leakage solutions, they can certainly make navigating the situation easier.

Here are some tips you can keep in mind when you have a conversation about urinary incontinence.

Educate Yourself About Urinary Incontinence

Whether it’s you or a loved one dealing with urinary incontinence, the first step is to research and learn about the condition in-depth.

The more you know about their condition, the better you will be able to explain it to someone else. It will also help you empathize with the loved ones struggling with the condition, and they’ll be able to see that you really care.

Moreover, knowing about urinary incontinence is the first step toward finding solutions through meaningful conversations.

Be Sensitive Toward The Issue

While having a conversation can be a great idea, it’s essential to understand that urinary incontinence can be a very sensitive subject to talk about.

The condition can feel pretty personal, and you may have to tread carefully through the conversation. You can use a combination of facts and empathy to address the issue properly. While you can depersonalize the condition by being factual, a little bit of emotion helps to remind the person that you’re not being dismissive of their struggles in any way.

Have Solutions Ready But Don’t Be Pushy

When you’re researching urinary incontinence, also lookup solutions and treatment suggestions. There are also numerous lifestyle changes that can help with a leaky bladder.

Present these solutions to your loved one but be subtle about it. If you feel like they’re not ready to make the extra effort right now, let them know that it’s completely fine, but you’re still here to help them recover when they’re ready.

Also, instead of Kegel exercises that can be overwhelming, try to suggest minor things like cutting down on caffeine and drinking more water.

You can also let them know about our health coaching with Dr. Shelia Whiteman. She’s an expert on pelvic health and bladder issues in women and can help you and your loved ones navigate your way through the best treatments for bladder leakage.