To pee or not to pee?

That’s a question most people can decide without much untoward difficulty.

But it’s not such an easy choice if you are affected by some form of incontinence.

South West Hospital and Health Service Continence Nurse Specialist Anna Ferrier said incontinence was a widespread condition that ranged in severity from ‘just a small leak’ to

complete loss of bladder or bowel control.

This year, World Continence Week from 18–24 June is helping draw attention to the issue.

As part of the week, the Continence Foundation of Australia is using humour through its “Laugh without Leaking” campaign to overcome the stigma of incontinence and get people talking about

their bladder and bowel troubles.

Ms Ferrier said the term ‘incontinence’ referred to the accidental or involuntary loss of urine from the bladder (urinary incontinence) or bowel motion, faeces or wind from the bowel (faecal

or bowel incontinence).

“Nearly five million Australians have some form of bladder or bowel control problems for a variety of reasons – so you are certainly not alone if you are affected,’’ she said.

“The good news is that incontinence can be treated and managed.

“In many cases it can also be cured.

“Changes such as adopting a healthier diet and lifestyle; incorporating regular exercise and practising good toilet habits can all lead to improvements.

“Healthy bladder and bowel habits can help you avoid bladder and bowel control problems such as incontinence.’’

Ms Ferrier said a wide range of physical and medical conditions could contribute to the development of incontinence issues.

These included pregnancy, obesity, mobility problems, menopause, some types of surgery, some medications and health conditions such as diabetes, stroke, heart conditions or prostate

problems.

“Even smoking can contribute to incontinence issues, particularly in women,’’ Ms Ferrier said.

“For instance, research in the United States shows that ‘urge incontinence’ – the strong and sudden urge to urinate – is up to three times more common in women who smoked than in

those who didn’t.

“Chronic coughing among female smokers also can contribute to urinary incontinence issues by putting extra pressure on the bladder.

“Whether you are male or female, and whatever your age, incontinence can have a major impact on your quality of life.

“So, if you or someone you know is affected by incontinence it’s important to remember that help is available.’’

Ms Ferrier said the South West HHS had programs in place that could help people manage their incontinence issues, or refer them to more specialised clinicians for more complex conditions.

“Just contact us and we will help you,’’ she said.

For information on continence programs available in the South West

  • Roma 4624 2719, or phone Charleville 4650 5093.
  • Laugh without Leaking: http://www.laughwithoutleaking.com.au/
  • Continence Foundation of Australia: https://www.continence.org.au/
  • The National Continence Helpline on 1800 33 00 66.