Managing Bowel & Bladder Symptoms
Bowel and bladder dysfunction is a common symptom of MS.
Approximately 80% of people with MS experience bladder problems, and about 70% experience bowel problems.
You might feel embarrassed, uncomfortable, and inconvenienced by these symptoms, but there are many ways you can manage them! Below, learn how MS leads to bowel and bladder troubles, how you can find the right treatment or therapy, and what lifestyle adjustments you can make to help.
This resource center includes:
Life with Bowel and Bladder Problems Caused by MS
Hear from two people living with MS as they discuss challenges and tips.
Speakers: Megan Weigel, DNP (nurse practitioner), Sharleen (lives with MS), and Jeff (lives with MS)
The Toll on Your Mind, Emotions, and Relationships
Understand the psychological effects of bowel and bladder symptoms.
Speakers: Rosalind Kalb, PhD (psychologist), Julie Stamm (MS activist), and Adam Romsdahl (support partner)
The Effects of MS on Your Bladder
Understand why you may be experiencing bladder issues.
Speaker: David Ginsberg, MD (urologist)
The Effects of MS on Your Bowel
Understand why you may be experiencing bowel issues.
Speaker: David Ginsberg, MD (urologist)
Treatments and Interventions
Understand what treatments can help your unique bladder and bowel concerns.
Speaker: David Ginsberg, MD (urologist)
Physical Therapy for Your Bladder and Bowel
Understand how pelvic floor exercises and other PT can improve bladder and bowel functions.
Speaker: Lindie Schreiner, PTA (physical therapy assistant)
Tips and Tricks for Daily Life
Understand how catheters and other tools can be discreet, simple options to improve your life.
Speaker: Megan Weigel, DNP, ARNP-C, MSCN (nurse practitioner)
Podcast
Managing Bowel and Bladder Symptoms
A discussion on real-life challenges, symptom management, and self-advocacy.
Speakers: Roz Kalb, PhD (psychologist), and Randy and Sue (couple living with MS)
Webinar Recordings
Bowel and Bladder Symptoms (2020)
Speakers: Tracy Walker, NP, WOC (nurse practitioner) and Lindie Schreiner, PTA (physical therapy assistant)
Managing Bowel and Bladder Issues in MS (2019)
Speakers: Ann Mullinex, OTR/L, NBC-HWC (occupational therapist) and Marie Namey, APRN, MSCN (nurse practitioner)
Library Articles
Bowel and Bladder Symptoms: Tips for Success
Author: Lindie Schreiner, PTA (physical therapy assistant)
Inconvenient, Isolating… and Manageable: Bowel and Bladder Issues in MS
Authors: Ann Mullinex, OTR/L, NBC-HWC (occupational therapist) and Marie Namey, APRN, MSCN (nurse practitioner)
