Incontinence and swimming in a public pool

[Cubbiesfan]

I wear undergarments 24/7 due to urinary incontinence following surgery and salvage radiation 6 years later. It got worse after the radiation. I am currently getting pelvic floor training, which I admit has helped.

So here’s the deal: last week I went to a wedding in the Rockies. One day my whole family went to indoor hot springs to relax. I felt I couldn’t go (1) for embarrassment for changing out of the “depends” in the locker room, and (2) fear of leaking into the warm/hot waters.

Has anyone with incontinence figured out how to use a public pool?

[BerkshireBear]

As a former life guard and life guard trainer I doubt you'll ever find a public pool that doesn't have measurable urine in the water. Hot springs might be different but I doubt. Plus urine is typically disease free, and the pool chemistry should take care of any that isn't. Don't worry about it. OTOH, changing: if it's everyone in a big room it might be a challenge, but I bet that most places have toilets in individual stalls with doors. Slip in there, pull down one and pull up the other (fake or take a poop as necessary), just remember your gym bag or towel to obscure the evidence enroute.

[Cubbiesfan in reply to BerkshireBear]

Dear BBear,

Where there’s a will, there’s a way. And you just showed the way!! Thanks so much! I’m already back from the wedding, but I will definitely remember your tips for future chances to swim.

[PCGeorge]

I was an avid swimmer prior to my prostatectomy. After surgery I leaked a lot. I had pelvic floor strengthening and PT. Ultimately I had an AUS (Artificial Urinary Sphincter) device implanted. I went from a couple of heavy duty pads a day to one very light pad which is not as painfully obvious if noticed at all. But upon realization of my issue I glanced about the locker room as I never had. I saw three other men in the same situation. I've come to accept it as part of my life. I just had to get over it. When I was leaking heavily initially I did avoid my family pool out of sanitary consideration but also because my trunks showed the leakage on the way to the pool. Now I can swim with little to no leakage. I do admit I tried the toilet stall to change but decided it was such an inconvenience and not something I should be ashamed of. We are all on this journey coming in with different baggage. I have found some solace in this group. I wish the same for you.