"My name is Jonah. I’m 52 and consider myself pretty fit and healthy. About a year ago, I was diagnosed with prostate hyperplasia, a pretty common men’s disease that’s easily treated. My GP said it was ‘routine surgery,’ so I didn’t even worry that much.
After the operation, everything was fine for a bit. Then one day I was driving home from work and felt something hot and wet in my lap. I panicked and worried that maybe I was ill again.
I thought about telling my wife, Jill, but decided this was something I had to deal with on my own. Not a good idea. I soon became a different person around my family and colleagues – always disappearing or hiding because I was ashamed.
Until one day Jill told me she knew what was happening. She reassured me about it and suggested I go back to my GP. She was obviously right. It was like a great weight had been lifted.
‘You’re not alone,’ my doctor said. Turns out it’s quite common after prostate surgery. He told me incontinence pads could help, but I kept thinking: ‘I’m going to have to wear a nappy!’
The thing is, the good pads are invisible and safe. Yes, they felt a bit strange at first but, once you’ve found the right one, you soon forget you’re wearing them. Best of all, I never had to worry about smells or leakage.
They are flexible, leakage-proof and fresh – odour control’s a must – and the feeling of security and control is great. No more skulking around, feeling shame and living a lie. I feel so much more relaxed about everything and, although of course I wish I didn’t leak, I’m happy just getting on with life".