Incontinence, which affects millions of people worldwide, is the involuntary loss of bladder or bowel control.

It's not a standalone disease, but often a symptom of an underlying health condition or bodily change [1].

There are two main types:

• Urinary Incontinence (UI): This involves involuntary urine loss, with subtypes like stress incontinence (triggered by physical actions), urge incontinence (sudden urge followed by leakage), and overflow incontinence (frequent dribbling due to incomplete emptying).
• Bowel Incontinence (BI): This is the inability to control bowel movements, leading to accidental stool leakage.

While UI is more common, both types can significantly impact the quality of life.

 

Beyond Age: Understanding Causes of Incontinence

One common misconception about incontinence is that it’s an “old person’s condition”.

While yes, incontinence is more prevalent with age, it's not the only contributing factor. Here are some other common causes:

 

• Physical Conditions: Weakened pelvic floor muscles, overactive bladder, nerve damage, prostate problems, and certain diseases like diabetes or multiple sclerosis.
• Lifestyle Factors: Obesity, chronic constipation, smoking, and high-impact exercise [2].
• Pregnancy and Childbirth: These can weaken pelvic floor muscles and stretch nerves [3].
• Medications: Some medications can contribute to incontinence as a side effect.
• Other Factors: Urinary tract infections, neurological conditions, and even emotional stress can impact incontinence.

The good news is that incontinence is manageable. Many solutions and management strategies exist, with the right approach depending on the type, severity, and underlying cause.

Here's How to Manage Incontinence

• Lifestyle Changes: Dietary modifications (e.g., reducing caffeine and alcohol), bladder training, pelvic floor exercises (Kegels), and weight management can make a big difference. Be sure to check out our pelvic floor exercise videos for some helpful beginner tips!

• Incontinence Aids: Absorbent pads, protective underwear, and barrier creams can help manage leaks and protect skin.

• Medications: Depending on the cause, medications might be prescribed to improve bladder or bowel function.

• Medical Procedures: In some cases, minimally invasive procedures or surgery might be recommended to strengthen pelvic muscles, correct structural issues, or implant devices to regulate nerve function.
  
  

Our Dailee incontinence products are designed to seamlessly fit into your life, so you can focus on what matters.

Made with soft, comfortable materials that hug your body discreetly, they are practically invisible under clothing. Explore our range of pads, guards, pull-ups and slips today!

Breaking the Incontinence Stigma

We understand incontinence can take an emotional toll. Fear of accidents, embarrassment, and a negative impact on social life can lead to isolation and mental health challenges.

That's why open communication, accurate information, and empowering people to seek help without shame are crucial.

Remember, incontinence isn't a character flaw or a sign of weakness.

 

It's an extremely common medical condition with a number of effective management solutions. In some cases, it can even be treated.

By understanding the causes, exploring treatment options, and seeking support, you can regain control and confidence.

If you need mental health support, you can call Lifeline on 13 11 14 or text 0477 13 11 14. They’re available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

 

Additional Resources

• The National Continence Helpline provides confidential information, advice and support. You can call them on 1800 330 066 between 8AM and 8PM (AEST).
• The Continence Foundation of Australia is the national peak body promoting bladder and bowel health, and is a not-for-profit organisation that provides information, support and resources for individuals, carers and professionals.
• Pelvic Floor First, an initiative by the Continence Foundation of Australia, has a range of resources available on their website, from pelvic floor exercise suggestions to details of local continence services.