How long did it take for you to feel confident? - IBS Network

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How long did it take for you to feel confident?

Equilibrated profile image
5 Replies

For those who wear diapers or nappies I would like to know how long it took for you to feel confident wearing them. I’ve been wearing for a couple of years now and still feel insecure or worried that people will find out, or that I may need to have an uncomfortable conversation with friends, family or colleagues.

Oddly the people I have talked to about it have been respectful and supportive. So why is it still so scary if people find out?

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Equilibrated profile image
Equilibrated
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5 Replies
Linley profile image
Linley

Well I don't wear incontinence pads unless I need too as in a long journey. IBS gives me a false sense of confidence for example I have been OK for 5 days but this afternoon after a light lunch had pain and 4 trips to the loo with diahorrea leaving me feeling empty and washed out so rested for an hour or so, good job I was not going out. I decided never to let it get me down and find it good therapy to occupy my mind once the bowel has stopped contracting. This post probably won't help you much but this is the way I cope. Seasons greetings to you🎅

grandylynda profile image
grandylynda

I wear incontinence pads for long journeys or country walks. Not ideal and, yes, I am self conscious and try to wear clothing that covers my bum loosely on top of trousers

Equilibrated profile image
Equilibrated in reply tograndylynda

thanks for the reply. Sometimes I feel like I’m the only one who is self-conscious about it. Seems like it’s always getting easier though.

grandylynda profile image
grandylynda in reply toEquilibrated

Yes, my problems got much worse after I had oesophageal cancer 5 years ago. I lost part of my stomach and oesophagus and it aggravated the ibs which turned from mostly c to all d. Its hard but the choice is to give up on life and feel sorry for yourself or deal with it. Not sure where you live but, in England, you can go on line and buy a key for disabled toilets. A radar key. Think that is initials for some thing. It's just a big key. I have only ever used it once but it provides a bit extra confidence when there are long queues. Not all disabled toilets here are locked but often ones outdoors are. I suspect the problem is more common than people admit. This forum is good as we can share. My advice is find ways of coping, keep positive and remember you are not alone x

Equilibrated profile image
Equilibrated in reply tograndylynda

Thank you.

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