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How do I bring up bladder leaks before a short appointment runs out?

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"Anything else?" arrived just as the doctor reached for the door last time. I said no, although I had spent the bus ride rehearsing a question about leaking urine when I coughed.

Next week's appointment is booked as an eczema follow-up. The cream has helped, and I have two photos to show. The leaks have been happening for months, but I keep deciding they are too embarrassing to introduce when somebody is already wrapping up.

Another visit would mean a second $45 fee and another unpaid hour away from the shop. I can afford it if it is needed. I would rather not need a second visit simply because I said "no" again.

[MedlinePlus suggests bringing a list of concerns and a description of symptoms](https://medlineplus.gov/talkingwithyourdoctor.html). I have written both issues down. My sister says handing over a list will look as though I expect two appointments for the price of one.

Would it be reasonable to name both concerns at the start and ask the clinician what can be covered? I want the leaks assessed, even if that means arranging another visit. I just need a way to get the first sentence out.

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3 community replies

A possible opening is: "The eczema follow-up is why I booked, and there is one other symptom I've been embarrassed to mention: urine leakage when I cough." Then let the clinician help set the order. That gives them information you withheld last time without insisting everything must fit.

Your sister is treating the list like a demand. It can be an explanation of why you came. Include when the leakage began and what happens, rather than trying to decide its cause yourself; that is the kind of preparation [MedlinePlus recommends](https://medlineplus.gov/talkingwithyourdoctor.html).

The unpaid hour matters as much as the $45. It may help to contact the clinic before next week and ask whether the booked visit can accommodate an additional concern, or whether a different booking is available. Ask about any fee before agreeing to a change.

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