5 Embarrassing Things About IBS That I'm Not Ashamed of
The total unpredictable nature of IBS can be extremely embarrassing at times. Over the years I’ve come to terms with the fact that my body may let me down, sometimes in public, and I’ve decided to own that. To call it out. Because for me, that makes it more normal.
The gut gurgles
I’ve never heard a sound quite as aggressive as the gut gurgle. The gurgle that lets you know something isn’t quite right. It always roars into action at those really quiet moments, while watching a film, chatting at the hairdressers, or just as I lay down in bed. The only way to respond is with a laugh, there it goes again. Unless it’s my find-a-toilet-quick warning, not so much laughter then.
I've a very gassy being
I can’t help it, I’m a very gassy human. My stomach bloats a lot and usually only deflates after I’ve let the wind out, which can take hours. I sometimes wish I had a little valve to speed the process up. In all honesty, I even burped while typing this sentence. That’s how bad it’s got. I’ve written before about how I find farting a minefield, so I always find it safest to lock myself in the loo when relieving that gas. You never know.
I’m the go-to person for poo chat
If any of my friends or family have a slightly dodgy tummy, need IBS advice, or want to discuss their bowel movements, I’m the one they flock to. And I don’t mind one bit. There’s no shame in talking about poo and I’m more than happy to disclose how many times I go a day. In fact, the more we talk about it, the better.
I’ve worn maternity jeans
Despite my stomach often being painfully bloated, I still love a skinny jean. But, more often than not, I have to pop that top button to stop it from digging in. After my best friend had her baby a few years ago, she donated her maternity jeans to me to try. Damn, were they comfy. That elasticated, stretch waistband was dreamy.
I can go anywhere
When the need strikes I have to use that toilet immediately. Which means I’ve had to go everywhere and anywhere. Plane toilets, pubs, clubs, at weddings, work offices, round other people’s houses. You name the place, I’ve probably emptied my bowels there.
All of these things could be deemed embarrassing but when you have IBS, they just become a way of life. Part of the norm. And the more we talk about them, the less taboo they become.
Community Poll
Does your IBS prevent you from attending public events?
Join the conversation