Dr. MJ Bazos MD, Patient Handout
Talking to Your Doctor About Bladder Control

Why is it So 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 why you have a bladder control problem and which 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 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 team find the cause of your bladder control problem.

• Could my usual food or drinks cause bladder problems?
• Could my medicines (prescription or over-the-counter drugs) cause bladder problems?
• Could other medical conditions cause loss of bladder control?
• 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?
• What can I do about the odor and rash caused by urine?

Before going to see your doctor, answer the questions on the next two pages. Check off the statements that apply to you. Fill in dates and other information. Show this sheet to your doctor at your next visit.

What Your Doctor Needs to Know

I take these prescription medicines:

_______________________________________________

_______________________________________________

_______________________________________________

I take these over-the-counter (nonprescription) drugs (such as Tylenol, aspirin, or Maalox):

_______________________________________________

_______________________________________________

_______________________________________________

If you take more medicines, please list them on a separate page.

I started having bladder trouble

________recently.

________1 to 2 years ago.

________years ago.

Number of babies I have had:________________

Dates:_________________________________________

My periods stopped (menopause).

Date:__________________________________________

I recently had an operation.

Date:__________________________________________

Type of operation:_____________________________

I recently hurt myself or have been sick.

Date: _________________________________________

Type of injury or illness:_____________________

I recently had a bladder (urinary tract) infection.

Date: _________________________________________

• ___I am often constipated.
• ___I have pain or burning feelings when urinating.
• ___I often have a very strong urge urinate right away.
• ___Sometimes my bladder feels full, even after I urinate.
• ___I urinate often, but very little urine comes out.
• ___I don't go out with friends or family because I worry about leaking urine.
• ___The first thing I do at new places is notice the bathroom location.
• ___I worry about being put in a nursing home because of bladder control problems.

I have (or had) these medical problems:

• ___Cancer
• ___Constipation
• ___Crippling arthritis
• ___Diabetes
• ___Depression
• ___Diverticulitis
• ___Interstitial cystitis
• ___Multiple sclerosis
• ___Spinal cord injury
• ___Stroke
• ___Urinary infection
• ___I smoke cigarettes.

Does Treatment Work?
Treatment usually works. Many women greatly improve their bladder control. Regaining control helps women enjoy healthier and happier lives.

Points to Remember

• Bladder control problems can be caused by many medical conditions.
• Most bladder control problems can be improved.
• Your health care team can help you improve your bladder control.
• Getting over your embarrassment is important. You need to get treatment.