When you’re ready, bring it up.
If you feel comfortable, bringing up the subject yourself can help your partner understand what's been happening.
How do you start the conversation?
Bladder problems are common and can affect people of all ages and genders, although some conditions are particularly common in women. Your partner may have noticed your sensitive bladder or commented on your frequent trips to the bathroom, or your reluctance to join them in certain activities, so this is a great place to start. For example, you could introduce it by “I’ve been needing to go to the bathroom much more than I used to and that’s why I have trouble enjoying my time in confined places like the cinema or long car rides when there is no easy access to toilets.” This will help you explain your change in behaviour, while letting them know how bladder sensitivity is affecting you.
It can take time to understand it.
Although your partner will most likely be supportive, it’s important to remember that they may have no idea about bladder sensitivity and what you’re going through and why. Tell them about your symptoms and describe how they’re affecting your life, and their impact on your relationship.
Bladder sensitivity is a common condition among women.
You can explain that bladder problems such as urgency, overactive bladder and urinary incontinence are common, particularly among women, although they can affect anyone. Help your partner understand how, why and who experiences bladder sensitivity. Reassure him that you’re managing your sensitive bladder with specific incontinence products like liners, pads and pants and explain that you are working on improving your bladder sensitivity.
Keep talking.
Your partner may not fully understand at first, and that's okay. Give them the opportunity to ask questions so you can work together to deal with your symptoms. This means you have someone to talk to about your and you have the practical support you need.
Claire, Administrator, 35: "It’s been nine years and I don’t keep my sensitive bladder to myself anymore – now I have my husband and closest friends to turn to for support.”
Mary, Cleaner, 44: "It’s taken me a while, but now I speak to my husband, family and my closest friends about my bladder sensitivity.”
