I'll admit that for whatever reason my bladder was a concern for me on the MCAT and at least a couple of the Steps, I can recall vividly in what ways I felt it had an impact on my experience during the test. So, I think it's a valid concern and one to consider ways of managing. That said, it's usually not drastic to manage or a make or break issue. Most of the time all you need to do is make a point of peeing whenever the opportunity arises vs waiting for the urge to strike you during a block or break. There are adequate opportunities for most people. For all my talk about a pad, all I can really say is that a lot of this is more about managing anxiety for most people, than a real problem. There are different ways for managing anxiety. Some people have more or less anxiety regarding their bladder.
I think it's useful as well to study in ways that simulate the test day experience, and that is an opportunity to practice coping strategies for test conditions. The advice I've heard is, drink the amount of caffeine and fluids you normally drink while you study. Then, simulate the test, while continuing to drink what you drink, or intend to the day of the test. Try having planned bathroom breaks. If that doesn't work, consider trying some of the above suggestions. I don't suggest you try reducing caffeine, or dehydration + pepto etc, or a pad, or caffeine pills, the first time, the day of the test. I appreciate that the OP is looking for ideas to try ahead of time.
But yes, some of us feel our bladders are more annoying than others.
