Although you no longer have the luxury of taking your body for granted, careful planning can help you to better manage your life with IBS. If you know that you experience diarrhea episodes in the morning, then try to schedule appointments in the afternoon. Let others know about your special needs, whether it be in terms of what you can eat or extra time for bathroom stops. Have a plan as to where to find available bathrooms and how you will stay calm until you are able to reach one.
Remember that accidents are extremely rare. Your body was trained at an early age to hold onto stool until you reach a bathroom, and most likely it will do so, even if it often seems like you made it “just in time.” If accidents concern you, then be prepared. Wear a sanitary pad if necessary, and carry baby wipes, a change of clothes, and anything else you might need to help you to feel an improved sense of safety and comfort.
Keep in mind that IBS tends to wax and wane. Just because you are feeling awful right now does not mean that you will always feel this way. So, take good care of yourself until your symptoms start to ease. Reassure yourself that with practice and a bit of trial and error, you will get better at helping yourself feel better.
