Supporting someone living with incontinence

Access resources and practical information to help your loved one manage their symptoms.

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Resources for family members, partners and caregivers

Supporting someone with bladder or bowel control symptoms isn't always easy. You may notice changes in their confidence, independence or daily routine and wonder how best to help without making them feel uncomfortable.

The good news is that you don't have to navigate it alone. Learning more about incontinence, understanding the treatment pathway and knowing how to start supportive conversations can help your loved one take the next step towards seeking medical advice.

Many people delay seeking help, even though effective management and treatment options may be available. Having encouragement from someone they trust can make a meaningful difference.

hree women sit closely together on a sofa, smiling and chatting while holding mugs.

Living with incontinence

70%

Australians experiencing incontinence do not seek help²⁷

A middle-aged couple sits closely together on a comfortable sofa, looking at a digital tablet in their hands.

Ways you can support a loved one

Living with bladder or bowel control symptoms can affect many aspects of everyday life. While every person's experience is different, practical support from family members, partners and caregivers can help someone feel more comfortable discussing their symptoms and exploring medical care.

You can help by:

Listening without judgement
Respecting their privacy and dignity
Learning about bladder and bowel conditions together
Encouraging them to speak with a healthcare professional when they're ready
Offering to attend appointments for support if they'd like you to

Understanding the care pathway

Many people aren't sure where to begin. A GP is often the first healthcare professional someone will see. Depending on their symptoms, they may be referred to a:

Urologist
Colorectal Surgeon
Gynaecologist
Urogynaecologist

These specialists can help determine what may be contributing to symptoms, discuss appropriate investigations, and explain available management or treatment options.

A female doctor in a white coat speaks with a middle-aged woman in a medical office. They sit across from each other at a desk, engaged in a focused conversation.

Starting the conversation

Talking about bladder or bowel control symptoms can feel uncomfortable, but a supportive conversation can make it easier for someone to seek help when they're ready. Here are some ways to start the conversation.

Conversation Prompts

Can I share with you what I am dealing with and how I am feeling?
I haven’t been feeling like myself. I worry that I may smell or be wet and not know it.
My leaking is bothering me, and I want to go to the doctor to discuss my options. Will you come with me?
Can we talk about my incontinence?
There’s something on my mind and I find it difficult to talk about.

Talking to a loved one who has incontinence

You seem hesitant about leaving home. Is everything ok?
Lately, you’ve been visiting the bathroom more than usual. Should we talk to a doctor about that?
I learned there are treatment options for incontinence beyond pads. Can we go to the doctor and ask them about treatment options?
I know you don’t want anyone to know about your bladder or bowel control issues, but I think it’s time to learn about options that can help.
I know you’re still leaking, so let’s see a doctor who specialises in incontinence. I think learning more about treatment options might help.

Helpful questions to ask a healthcare professional

Why am I incontinent?
Will my incontinence go away?
Will my incontinence get worse?
Could pelvic floor exercises help? Do they work?
Could my loved one’s medicines be aggravating their incontinence?
What tests might help to determine the cause of the condition?
I’ve had bladder leaks for years, is there anything I can do about it?
Is surgery an option? Are there other treatment options available that could help?
What are the surgical and non-surgical treatment options for incontinence?

Taking the next step

If you’re interested in taking control of your bladder or bowel leakage, there are many ways to start your treatment journey.

Connect with a healthcare professional to ask more questions and get more information.

Find a specialist

Learn how real people found a treatment option for their incontinence.

Explore patient stories

Take an assessment and receive incontinence resources, which may serve as a starting point for meaningful conversations.

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Reference:

27. Continence Health Australia.

Disclaimer and endnotes:

Results from case studies are not necessarily predictive of results in other cases. Results in other cases may vary.

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Individual symptoms, situations, circumstances and results may vary. This quiz is meant for information purposes only, it is not intended to be used for medical diagnosis or treatment or as a substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult your doctor or qualified healthcare provider regarding your condition and appropriate medical treatment. This site is intended for Australian residents only. Please review the Boston Scientific Privacy Policy, for practices on the collection, storage, use and disclosure of your personal information.

Content of videos are for Information Purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. BSC strongly recommends that you consult with your physician on all matters pertaining to your health or to address any questions.

The Axonics SNM system is not a first-line treatment. Surgery is required for use of Axonics SNM system, and any surgical procedure carries risk. Outcomes vary for each patient. Patients should consult their healthcare professional about factors that could impact response.

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