Posted by Sally on 21/5/2009, 10:53 am

I've been suffering with paruresis for about 30 years - I'm 34 now and it started when I was in Class 2 at primary school. I have only just looked it up and found a name for my condition, after watching embarrassing bodies on Channel 4. It seems to be getting worse rather than better as I get older. I'm female and can't wee in my own house if there is anyone else in, and sometimes when i'm on my own I still have trouble. Public toilets are definately out - I can be in severe pain and almost become unable to walk and still not be able to go. If I'm out in the pub it takes me many drinks and 5 or 6 trips to the loo before I can go. If I'm very drunk, it tends to be easier, unless people are waiting for me or there are other people in the cubicles. Travelling is the worst - I have never been able to go on a plane or a train or at an airport. For long trips this causes me great anxiety and I begin to worry about it weeks before I'm due to fly anywhere. When I went to Canada, I went 34 hours without weeing, it was agony. I have had one hypnotherapy session but she didn't really get what I was talking about and it didn't work at all. Its got to the point now where my day is planned around when I might need to go for a wee and where I can go - can I get home, will anyone else be in etc. This puts a stop to any impromptu plans for whole days out or staying over night somewhere. Its also affecting my ability to have a relationship because I can't stay over at someone's house, and can't go in my own house if someone else is here! My friends all know about it and they are all really understanding - we have a laugh about it and they wait for as long as it takes, but I want it to stop now! Got any miracle cures?! I would really appreciate some help and advice and just some more information really. I live in Truro, Cornwall and can't seem to find a suitable therapist either so if you know anyone who has experience in this, (I'm happy to travel as far up as Exeter), I would really appreciate some contact details. Also just like to hear from other people who have the same problem as me - I've never met anyone who has it to the same extent as myself! Look forward to hearing from you, Sally

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