Overactive Bladder (OAB) Impacts 20 Million Women in the U.S., Yet 80 Percent Never Seek Treatment

This November, during National Bladder Awareness Month, the PFD (Pelvic Floor Disorder) Alliance wants to help the millions of women living with OAB through the launch of the “Break Free Today” campaign for OAB. The campaign is intended to raise awareness of OAB and empower women to know that they do not have to suffer in silence or try to manage OAB on their own. OAB can be effectively treated by working with a urogynecologist and having a more knowledgeable conversation with your doctor.

OAB is characterized by symptoms that include an uncontrollable urge to go to the bathroom, usually along with these other symptoms:

• Leakage or involuntary loss of urine
• Frequent need to urinate (as much as 8 times or more a day)
• Awakening during the night to urinate

To “Break Free Today” start with the following steps:

1. Visit www.voicesforpfd.org/breakfree
   to learn more about OAB, use interactive tools to learn more about your symptoms and better prepare to discuss OAB with a doctor.
2. Refer to the online tool, ‘Five Questions to Ask Yourself’ about OAB, before visiting a doctor to ensure a better dialogue about your individual symptoms.
3. Use the downloadable ‘Life Impact Tracker’ to uncover how OAB impacts your life over time. Recognizing the ways OAB dictates your day-to-day life is important when speaking with a doctor.
4. Call a doctor and schedule an appointment to discuss your OAB treatment options.
5. Be open and honest about your family history and your symptoms, and keep in mind that with the right tools and conversations with your doctor, you can help treat OAB.

For more information on OAB, visit www.voicesforpfd.org/breakfree.