INCONTINENCE
Frequently Asked Questions
Explore our frequently asked questions (FAQs) about incontinence symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options.
Symptoms may include leaking urine, needing to urinate urgently, going to the toilet more often than usual, and waking during the night to urinate.
What are the common symptoms of bowel incontinence?
Bowel incontinence is the inability to control when you pass stool. Some people experience leakage with urgency, while others may leak without warning.
Why do I suddenly feel like I can't hold on?
A sudden, difficult-to-control urge to empty your bladder or bowel can occur when the muscles or nerves involved in bladder or bowel control are not working as they should. Your healthcare professional can help identify the cause.
When should I see a doctor?
If bladder or bowel leakage is affecting your daily life, becoming more frequent, or causing distress, it's a good idea to speak with your GP or healthcare professional.
What causes bladder incontinence?
There are many possible causes, including pregnancy and childbirth, ageing, menopause, prostate conditions, nerve disorders, certain medications and other medical conditions. Your doctor can help determine the underlying cause.1
How is bladder incontinence diagnosed?
Your healthcare professional may ask about your symptoms, review your medical history and perform tests such as a bladder diary, urine test, ultrasound or other investigations if needed.
What causes bowel incontinence?
There are many possible causes, including diarrhoea, constipation, childbirth injuries, weakened anal muscles, nerve disorders, inflammatory bowel disease, surgery and some medications.2
How is bowel incontinence diagnosed?
Your healthcare professional will discuss your symptoms, medical history and may recommend keeping a bowel diary or performing additional tests to identify the cause.
What treatments are available for bladder or bowel incontinence?
Treatment depends on the cause of your symptoms. Options may include lifestyle changes, pelvic floor exercises, medications and, for some people, more advanced treatments or surgery.1-2
Can lifestyle changes help?
Yes. Simple lifestyle changes, such as adjusting fluid or fibre intake, diet or bowel habits, can improve symptoms for some people.1-2
Can pelvic floor exercises improve my symptoms?
For many people, pelvic floor muscle training can improve bladder or bowel control. Your healthcare professional or physiotherapist can advise whether these exercises are suitable for you.
What happens if conservative treatments don’t work?
If symptoms continue despite lifestyle changes, exercises or medication, your healthcare professional may discuss other treatment options that may be appropriate for you.
How do I know which treatment option is right for me?
The best treatment depends on the cause of your symptoms, your health, lifestyle and personal preferences. Your healthcare professional can help you understand the benefits and considerations of each option so you can make an informed decision.
What are advanced treatments for incontinence?
Advanced treatments are generally considered when symptoms haven't improved enough with lifestyle changes, pelvic floor exercises or medications. Your healthcare professional can discuss whether these options may be suitable for you.
What are bladder injections?
Bladder injections involve injections into the bladder muscle to help reduce overactive bladder symptoms. The effects are temporary, so treatment may need to be repeated over time.1
What is percutaneous tibial nerve stimulation (PTNS)?
PTNS is a treatment that uses gentle electrical stimulation of a nerve near the ankle to help improve communication between the nerves and the bladder. Treatment usually involves a series of appointments and may require maintenance sessions.1
What is sacral nerve stimulation?
Sacral neuromodulation is a therapy that uses mild electrical stimulation to help regulate the nerves that control bladder or bowel function. It is typically considered when more conservative treatments have not provided enough symptom relief.1
How do I know if an advanced treatment is right for me?
Your healthcare professional will consider your symptoms, previous treatments, medical history and personal preferences before discussing which options may be appropriate. Shared decision-making helps ensure the treatment chosen aligns with your needs and lifestyle.1-2
References
1. OAB Answers: Helping You Make Decisions About Treatment for Overactive Bladder. World Federation of Incontinence and Pelvic Problems (WFIPP), European Association of Urology (EAU) Patient Office and international steering committee. 2024.
2. Faecal Incontinence (FI) Patient Decision Aid: Helping You Make Decisions About Treatment for Faecal Incontinence. International Steering Committee. Developed with patient advocates and healthcare professionals. 2024.