Concerned About My Bladder Health
Age: 17, Height: 5’1", Weight: 71 kg. Since childhood, I have dealt with nocturnal enuresis, which means I involuntarily urinate while asleep, though not while I'm awake. Additionally, being autistic has made it challenging for me to recognize when I need to use the bathroom. During my early teens, around the ages of 12 to 13, I made the unwise decision to hold my urine for extended periods because I found it somehow pleasurable; I've read that it might stimulate certain areas of the body, although I'm not entirely sure if that's true. I realize how foolish this behavior was, and I'm quite embarrassed to share it in this post. I often find myself regretting my past actions and I genuinely hope this won't lead to negative comments. Now, at 17 years of age, I've been striving to break this habit, and at times I've succeeded. Unfortunately, I've noticed that my bladder has become significantly weaker. Lately, I've been experiencing intense pain in my lower abdomen whenever I try to hold it. I managed to refrain for a while, but a few months back, I was in a situation where I couldn’t get up to head to the restroom, so I ended up holding it again. Ever since that incident, I’ve noticed a foul odor from the night pants I wear. The stench is overwhelming. If I don't rush to the bathroom now at the first urge, it has a similarly unpleasant smell. I'm hesitant and anxious about visiting a doctor, as I'm unsure how to explain my situation, especially regarding my past behavior with holding in my urine. I feel utterly foolish for my actions. Any advice or assistance would be greatly appreciated; I wish more than anything that I could reverse the damage I've done to myself.
Answers (1)
7/30/2025, 12:40:36 AM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to have concerns about bladder health, especially given your history and current symptoms. The good news is that acknowledging these issues is a vital first step toward improving your situation. Your experiences with nocturnal enuresis and discomfort while holding urine suggest that your bladder needs some attention.
Explanation
Holding urine for prolonged periods can strain your bladder and may lead to pain and changes in urinary habits, including odor. This could be due to various reasons, including urinary tract infections (UTIs), which can occur when urine remains in the bladder for too long, creating an environment for bacteria to thrive. Your worries about sharing your past behaviors are understandable, but it's important to remember that many people face similar challenges, and healthcare providers are there to help, not judge.
Next Steps
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Hydration: Start by increasing your water intake. This helps dilute your urine and may reduce any odor. Aim for at least 8 glasses (about 2 liters) a day unless you hear otherwise from your healthcare provider.
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Practice Timely Bathroom Visits: Try to schedule bathroom breaks regularly, even if you don't feel an urgent need. Start with every 1-2 hours during the day to help retrain your bladder to empty at intervals.
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep a diary of your symptoms, including any pain you experience, frequency of urination, and any scents. This information will be helpful if you decide to see a healthcare professional.
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Seek Professional Help: Consider visiting a doctor or a specialized nurse about your symptoms, even if it feels daunting. You can write down your concerns beforehand to make it easier to explain. Remember, professionals are accustomed to discussing sensitive topics, and they want to assist you.
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Practice Relaxation Techniques: If visiting a doctor feels overwhelming, explore relaxation methods (like deep breathing or mindfulness) to help ease this anxiety before your visit.
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Consider Support Groups: Some communities or online forums offer support for those facing similar issues. Connecting with others who share your experience can provide comfort and insight.
You are taking a crucial step by recognizing these concerns, and there are paths forward. Working on your hydration, bladder habits, and seeking support can significantly improve your experiences and help restore your bladder health.
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