26 year old with incontinence

[chr043]

I am 26 years old and I am having a difficult time with this.  It's to the point now where every time I cough, sneeze, laugh, lift something, and even walk up stairs, I will pee on myself; it's so bad I'm having to change a pad 5-8 times a day, which is quite embarrassing.  It's even an issue with sex, not only does it hurt, but I pee the whole time!  I'm having alot of pelvic pressure, and it feels like I don't empty my bladder all the way when I do use the restroom.  I'm also having issues finishing BMs as well. I've noticed now there's bulging from the front and the back of my vagina. I've only had one child, but is was by c-section.  I'm to the point I want to go the the dr about it.  Is there anything they can do for me being my age?

[threesunrises]

Based on your symptoms, it sounds like you have a cystocele and rectocele, which are basically fascial defects. Definitely do not delay in seeking treatment from urogynecologist (they are specifically trained in pelvic floor disorders).  I understand your being embarrassed and humiliated but you would be surprised to learn that pelvic organ prolapse is extremely common, especially in women who have had children.  Pelvic muscle training (biofeedback, PT, Athena pelvic muscle trainer) may be recommended or surgery and a sling may be advised.  I would recommend you do your homework prior to agreeing to the sling.  Sometimes the negatives outweigh the positives with regards to the sling.  Good luck and keep positive  

[saj39]

I also have this problem and went to a urologist about it years ago and was told that I needed to have a sling put in my uretha. I was told that I had to be done having children in order for it to stay effective for me. I have had 2 children since then and now 4 years later I am finally going back to another urologist to se what they can do. I am raw from wearing a pad everyday. I am so ready to go to the doctor. I hope it is not too late for me.

[lynnsaleo]

By all means, get yourself to a fellowship trained urogynecologist. You don't say how long this has been going on. But I can certainly understand the embarrassment and the reluctance to talk to a doctor or anyone else about it.  The only way you can find out what it is and how to fix it is to get yourself into the hands of a specialist who deals with this type of problem daily.  

My problem is complicated and unfixable, but I am sure if I had gotten into the right hands early on I wouldn't be sitting here with a full-time foley catheter, adult diapers and an unfixable problem.

I only wish that when my problems started, I had the sense to talk to someone and not just try to hide this embarrassing situation.  You have taken a great first step by finding your way to this forum.  I know I felt better and less isolated when I realized there are other women out there with simular problems.  Doctors, spouses, even friends can't be a real support system for us because they have no idea what it is like to be an "adult" and always worrying "how and when am I going to wet myself next" or "what can I do to hide this whole problem and to make it go away."

Granted, we may not all have the same problems, but I assure you, you are not a freak of nature and there is help out there.
Good luck,
Lynn

[chr043]

oops!  that tag is a typo-I'M FEMALE!