It is never easy to talk about incontinence. Whether you are the one having symptoms or someone close to you is, it is a conversation that most people avoid. However, expressing your issue with a loved one may be one of the most beneficial things you can do on your road to recovery. With a little forethought, a big breath, and some honesty, you'll be able to move on to the next (and more constructive) stage of your fight - treatment.

Individuals who manage incontinence may feel embarrassed telling a significant other. Whether you are a friend, colleague, or significant other, there are ways to handle the conversation with compassion and grace. Opening up to someone may not only provide you with the physical help you need but also lift an emotional weight off your shoulders. You don’t have to go through this alone.

If you decide that you’re ready to have the conversation with your partner, here are 4 steps we recommend you take:

1. Wait and be sure about your decision: Take a while; it might be a friend, family member, partner, co-worker, or health professional. It should be someone you trust and feel will be able to support you. You may want to start by saying, “can I tell you about an issue I’ve been dealing with” or “I’ve been struggling recently with incontinence.” Talk about what you’ve been experiencing, and don’t be afraid to ask for support if you need it.
2. Be Relaxed and Confident - Set the tone. Wait until you and your partner or family member is in a relaxed environment or pick a location where you feel comfortable enough to talk about your issue – that might mean somewhere you won’t be overheard, like at home or during a walk in the park. Confidence is one of the important factors for easily telling your partner about incontinence. If it shows through your posture and speech, confidence can give respect, which is what you deserve for taking such a major step. 
3. Have an open mind: Welcome the silent moment. Some people take a longer time to process and react to news like this. Be patient with them and try to be as accepting and understanding as possible.
4. Thank them for being brave or sincere: Keep in mind that they won’t always work with everyone. You must even be ready to lose friends in the process. Yet, keep in mind that had your friendship been true, they would have overlooked such a small detail. So, be prepared for the worst and focus on thanking and valuing the friends who accept you with open arms.

You could be on the easier end of this conversation, believe it or not. As uncomfortable as it may seem to open up to someone about this, if you are ready to do so, you have likely acknowledged that this has become a problem and are ready to receive assistance. And who better to give such support than a close friend or partner? At Odinnma, we believe it isn't making a fuss to talk about incontinence or find help.

Have you communicated incontinence to your partner? Share your story with us in the comment section to encourage someone.