Addressing sensitive topics like this with neighbors requires tact and consideration. Here's a polite way to approach the situation:
Choose the right time and place: Find a suitable moment to talk privately with your neighbors. Avoid discussing this matter in public or in front of other people.
Be empathetic: Start the conversation by expressing understanding and empathy. You could say something like, "Hey, I hope everything's going well. I wanted to talk to you about something that's been bothering me, but I understand that we all have normal bodily functions."
Use "I" statements: Frame the issue from your perspective using "I" statements to avoid sounding accusatory. For example, say, "I've noticed that sometimes I can hear some noises at night that disturb my sleep."
Be specific but not graphic: It's not necessary to go into explicit detail about the noises you've heard. Keep it simple and avoid causing embarrassment. Saying something like, "I hear some noise at times during the night that wakes me up," should suffice.
Share the impact: Let them know how it's affecting you without blaming or shaming them. For instance, say, "It makes it challenging for me to get a good night's rest, and I'm feeling a bit tired during the day."
Offer a solution: Propose a potential solution or compromise to address the issue. You could suggest, "I was wondering if we could explore some ways to minimize noise transfer between our apartments. Maybe adding some extra insulation or trying white noise machines could help."
Maintain a friendly tone: Throughout the conversation, keep a friendly and understanding demeanor. Avoid sounding judgmental or irritated.
Respect their response: Be open to hearing their side of the story, and try to understand their perspective. They might not be aware of the noise and could be willing to work on a resolution.
Follow up if necessary: Give them some time to think about the conversation. If the noise continues after your talk, consider a polite follow-up to gently remind them about the issue and discuss any progress.
Remember, discussing such intimate matters can be awkward for both parties, so it's crucial to handle it with care and understanding.