I have struggled with the emotional distress of bowel incontinence due to a combination of EPI, SIBO, the medication used to treat EPI, and possibly just simple IBS C/D alternating, so I can relate. Losing a relationship during this time was especially hard, and I understand it is a lot to ask a new partner to accept, and am just now venturing back into dating.

Before the health issues, I had an intense exercise routine, diet, and was in incredible shape. This has been humbling, to say the least. After several humiliating accidents in public (not limited to light leakage), and in a hotel, nonetheless, I became increasingly neurotic about staying home.

The LOWFOD map diet helped a great deal, and getting back into exercise has as well. I am trying to be more positive in my thinking, and that has helped my mood, but accidents still occur. I just try ot be prepared: Extra Depends, wipes, latex gloves, and bags to dispose of discreetly, and if traveling, I sleep on a pad to help avoid problems in hotels. Having a spare change of clothes is imperative.

Choosing to wear Depends made a difference, but it took a long time to accept it. However, as awkward as it was mentally, it was not nearly as awkward as avoiding contact with others, or worse, having an accident. As I am a very social person, I simply couldn't take it anymore.

I have had occasional bed wetting and saw several urologists about it. They said as long as it is only at night and a couple of times a month, it is not a significant worry, considering my other health issues and age. Easy for the doctor to say, but I guess in the big picture, they are correct. I am still alive, and my overall health is improving, so there is that. At this point, if there is an issue, I simply excuse myself and deal with it.