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TALKING
TO YOUR HEALTHCARE TEAM ABOUT BLADDER CONTROL
Why
is it hard to talk about bladder control?
You
may feel embarrassed to talk about such a personal thing. Or, like
many women, you may feel ashamed about loss of bladder control.
But,
when you learn it’s a medical problem, you know it’s not
your fault. Millions of other women have the same problem.
Your
health care team can help you. Nearly everyone with a bladder control
problem can be helped.
You need
to ask the doctor questions. And the doctor needs to ask you questions.
By talking, you will learn
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why you have a bladder control problem and |
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what
treatment is right for you. |
How
can you tell your doctor about a bladder control problem?
Even
if you feel shy, it is up to you to take the first step. Some doctors
do not treat bladder control problems, so they don’t ask about
it. Others might expect you to bring up the subject.
Because
bladder control problems are common, your doctor has probably heard
many stories like yours. If your doctor does not treat bladder problems,
ask for help in finding someone who can help you.
The
good news is that most women with bladder control problems can get
better, with the help of their health care team.
What
questions should you ask?
These
questions can help your health care tem find the cause of your bladder
control problem.
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Could my usual food or drinks cause bladder problems? |
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Could my medicines (prescription or over-the-counter drugs)
cause bladder problems? |
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Could other medical condition cause loss of bladder control? |
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What
are the treatments to regain bladder control? Which one is best
for me? |
| • |
Can you help me, or can you tell me whom I should see instead? |
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What
can I do about the odour and rash caused by urine? |
Points to Remember
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Bladder control problems can be caused by many medical conditions. |
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Most bladder control problems can be improved. |
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Your healthcare team can help you improve your bladder controls. |
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Getting over your embarrassment is important. You need to get
treatment. |
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