Questions to Ask Your Doctor

You are taking the first step in trying to successfully manage incontinence, but what you ask your doctor, or don’t ask your doctor, will have a lot to do with the success and understanding of the condition. Before visiting the doctor, make sure you have a list of questions ready to ask that pertain not only to your particular set of circumstances, but also questions about incontinence in general. Ask for any literature to read or websites to visit that your doctor can recommend to you, as well.

The first thing to know is that no matter what you ask your doctor, you can bet he or she has already heard it, so don’t be embarrassed. Be sure to address everything you are experiencing, no matter how big or small or embarrassing it may seem to you because your doctor is going to be your best asset in garnering the information you need about the subject of bladder control management for men and women.

Here are 8 helpful questions you should consider asking your doctor:

First of all, ask your doctor to help you to determine which type of incontinence you have. There are several different types, and in order to pinpoint your particular type, be sure to tell your doctor everything. They can then advise proper treatment and products recommended for light incontinence to heavy incontinence necessitating overnight incontinence products.
What is causing my bladder control problem; is it temporary or permanent?
Are you going to run tests to diagnose and treat my condition, and what type of tests and treatment might be involved?
Are there any risk factors involved in treatment; will there be temporary or lasting side effects?
What is the success rate of treatment, and will it stop or substantially lessen urinary leakage?
Will I need to wear an adult diaper or pull-on underwear, or some sort of pad during or after treatment? (Try our BestFit chart!)
Can I continue to work or exercise during treatment; can you recommend a discreet product for men or for women?
Most importantly, ask if your doctor thinks you will need surgery and what prognosis does he or she foresee?

It is important to remember that whether your incontinence is temporary or permanent, there are options and there are treatments available. The sooner you address the situation, the greater the odds of a more successful outcome.