How I Cope With Sudden IBS Urgency in Traffic

IBS urgency can hit at any moment, and it is crucial that you are prepared. This past month, I was stuck in traffic, and I was hit with an intense urge to use the restroom.

But because I have been dealing with IBS for many years, I was able to quickly address the situation and avoid a horrible bathroom accident.

In a case like this, let’s take a look at what I did and how you can plan to do the same.

Decide in advance: should I go inside or outside my car?

If you are ever in a car and experience urgency, you really only have 2 choices: either use the restroom inside your car or outside. I have 2 good solutions.

Use a portable car toilet

The first option is keeping a portable toilet in your car. You can purchase one on Amazon and they are budget-friendly.

Always line your portable toilet with a minimum of 2 high-quality garbage bags. This way, in the event of an emergency, you can pull over, hop to the back of your car, and use the toilet.

Go outside (with or without a toilet)

The second option is using the toilet right outside your car or going outside without a toilet. Of course, in order to do this with privacy, the area in which you pull over is crucial.

For example, if you are on a highway and pull over, usually there is open field, vacant area, or tall wall to provide privacy. This will work to your favor.

Once pulled over, open your front passenger door and back passenger door. You have now created a makeshift bathroom stall. Place your portable toilet between both doors or just squat and go.

For the situation at hand, this will be your best bet.

Create an IBS emergency car kit

I always have pads, baby wipes, and an extra pair of underwear in my glove compartment. This way, if you ever have to pull over and go while driving, cleaning up afterwards is easy.

Stay calm

Don’t panic. That is the worst thing you can do. Breathe calmly and pull over calmly. I find that the more you get agitated, the more intense your urgency symptoms become.

This is completely mental and you have to train yourself to respond this way, but it is easily learned with practice.

Incontinence pads are my last-resort option

A last-resort option is incontinence pads that you can sit on in your car, and when you get home, you can can deal with pick up. I have never done this before and it would be an ultimate last option for me. However, the incontinence pads are something you can easily keep in your glove compartment. You can also purchase them on Amazon.

Having a plan before IBS urgency hits is key

Overall, I find it is most beneficial to think of the worst scenario possible and have plans in place for those scenarios. No one wants to experience bowel urgency while driving or stuck in traffic, but having a plan can ease the shock of dealing with such an unwanted situation.

What items do you keep in your emergency car kit?

Do you have any plans in place if you were to be hit with IBS urgency while driving? If so, please share them below.