Patient Testimonials

A New Beginning
Donna, TX

Donna’s experience as an overactive bladder (OAB) patient illustrates both the physical and social problems with which a woman with OAB must contend. Her story illustrates the problem is a serious one that affects all areas of a woman’s life.

Donna has had OAB for many years, but it became much more severe about 10 years ago. She felt a lot of shame and did not seek treatment for more than three years. Much of her daily life was devoted to combating the problem. Along with giant cups, she kept a change of clothes and baby wipes in the car. She knew every clean bathroom in town, but, at times, had to relieve herself behind a dumpster or bush. Her daughter “was humiliated, [and] my husband was unsupportive and critical.” She had to stop going to the theater.

“I was embarrassed,” she admitted. “I thought [OAB] was a condition only older women who had had multiple births suffered… not a 30ish young woman.”

About seven years ago, Donna finally discussed her problem with her doctor. He prescribed Oxybutynin and, a few days later, she felt much better. She stopped drinking caffeine and followed a bathroom voiding schedule. Then, about two years ago, she was part of a clinical trial of OXYTROL (Oxybutynin Transdermal System), a new twice a week patch treatment. She soon discovered that the patch fit her lifestyle much better than the pill, and the dosing schedule was certainly easier.

“Tell your doctor [about your OAB problem],” Donna advises. “Talk to your family, and make them realize you need medical help. Talk to your friends. [Some] of them [may] have it, too. Begin using… voiding schedules, and give up caffeine. Ask for OXYTROL by name. It’s new, and some doctors may not know it is available. Stop feeling ashamed! You are not alone! Take your life back, and start living!”