- my iParenting
- quick clicks
- grandparents today articles
- grandparents today q&a
- message boards
- research baby names
- prepare a birth plan
- content channels
- ip channel rss feeds
- read birth stories
- read parenting stories
- recommended books
- e-newsletters
- safety recalls
- ip diaries
- ip store
- mom of the month
- dad of the month
- editor's letter
- letters to the editor
 |
- e-newsletters
- Sign up to receive our free weekly e-newsletters
- award-winning products
The iParenting Media Awards program helps parents find the best products for their families.
A Prescription for Discussion
The Importance of Seeing a Health Care Provider About Incontinence
By Lyn Mettler
Talking about incontinence – it's something that's uncomfortable for most of us, and even talking about it with our closest family and friends can be difficult. Add someone you hardly know to the mix and it can be downright scary.
That's likely why a 2004 survey conducted by Harris Interactive for the National Association for Continence (NAFC) and Kimberly-Clark Corporation, the makers of DEPEND® products, found that more than half of those experiencing some bladder control loss have not discussed it with their health care provider. Further, the survey also found that those who did discuss their bladder loss with their doctor experienced tremendous improvement in their problem and their quality of life.
Chris Rockhey, 29, was one of those statistics until his parents encouraged him to see a doctor to investigate any potential health problems related to his incontinence. "I was more than hesitant [to talk] to a doctor about my problems," says Rockhey. "I was afraid of having someone make judgments about me."
Rockhey's doctor discussed potential causes and ways to treat the condition and then referred him to a urologist for additional tests. "The doctor was informative and helpful," Rockhey says. "Not once did I feel he made any judgments about what I was wearing."
Even those who are able to get past the fear of judgment and embarrassment may simply feel they're not equipped with the proper language to talk about it, says Nancy Muller, executive director of the NAFC. Plus, many just don't realize incontinence is a medical condition, says Muller. "People harbor myths that aren't true," she says. "They think it's a natural part of aging and a natural part of having children," myths which the NAFC is working hard to dispel so that the population can get the proper care they need.
