When it comes to female urinary incontinence, many women are doorknob conversationalists.

What's a "doorknob conversation"?

It's where you avoid talking about urinary incontinence during the entire doctor's appointment because you are too embarrassed to bring it up. Then, at the last moment, literally when your hand is on the doorknob and you are walking out the door, you raise the issue.

Those conversations usually start with, "By the way ..." or "I forgot the mention this, but ..."

You know what we're talking about, right? We've all done it, and it's nothing to be ashamed of.

Unfortunately, these kinds of conversations prevent you from getting the help you need. Your doctor isn't likely to have time at the end of your appointment to fully discuss your urinary incontinence issues, so you'll end up having to come back for another appointment.

Three Steps to Avoiding Doorknob Conversations
Instead of waiting until you are walking out the door to ask your doc for help, get right to the heart of the issue at the beginning of the appointment. Here are three tips to help you avoid doorknob conversations.

1. Be Clear About the Purpose of Your Appointment
When you call to schedule your appointment, be sure to tell the staff at your doctor's office that the purpose of your appointment is to discuss urinary incontinence. Be sure to use the words "urinary incontinence" so that your meaning isn't lost in translation. Be firm with yourself about this!

2. Jot Down Your Symptoms and Questions
To be sure you get exactly the help you need, make a list of all of your symptoms. Include items like when you leak urine, how much urine you leak, triggers for urine leakage, and any other related symptoms. Make a list of all the medications you currently take, as some of these could be related to your symptoms. Finally, jot down any questions you want your doctor to answer.

3. Grab a Buddy
If you are afraid that you will chicken out at the last moment, either by skipping your appointment or failing to actually discuss your symptoms, take a buddy with you to your appointment. Ask your buddy to remind you of the purpose of your appointment, and ensure that you cover every item on your list during your appointment. A trusted friend can offer a lot of moral support and courage.

Need more tips? Check out these resources:

Using the Right Words - Don't Let Your Symptoms Get Lost in Translation
Learn About the Different Types of Urinary Incontinence
How to Keep a Voiding Diary

Photo credit: Free Digital Photos