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I know we all have different philosophies regarding sharing. I tend to overshare, specifically to address the stigma that’s associated with it.

Everyone I know, if they ask and I have the time, gets a complete rundown of my bladder habits, sexual function, and whatever else is or will be going on (I’m fortunate right now in that all I’m dealing with is incontinence and ED).

My feeling is, if I’m hiding it, I’m feeding that Shame Monster. There should be nothing to be embarrassed about in having to wear “protective undergarments” - my niece, who routinely works with older folks in her job as a geriatric studies professor, taught me that phrase: “Don’t say diapers! You’re not a baby!” Gotta love her!

I own it. My family knows, my coworkers know. HR knows. My neighbors know. Hell, my hair stylist knows (and she’s been a rock of support, believe it or not). I’m loud and proud about it.

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Replies to "I know we all have different philosophies regarding sharing. I tend to overshare, specifically to address..."

@turtbean I agree. I don't think anyone should feel pressured to share, but if you feel strong enough to share, you're making it easier for the next person. If enough of us share, some day there will be no stigma around this stuff it all (it will become "normalised", as the sociologists say).

As long as our disease and its symptoms are hidden in the shadows, we're signalling to the world that they're somehow shameful.

@turtbean Would love to be free enough to go full disclosure with everyone. But, not my style to overshare with everyone....just those I trust.

I'm early in this game (two-months post surgery), so guess I'm gonna see what where my post surgery side-effects finally end up.