Incontinence has been defined as the unintentional loss of urine. This can range from light, occasional, dribbles to more frequent, heavy, leakage. The control over bladder voiding is disturbed through some cause or another. It is essential that medical advice is taken to determine the underlying reasons for incontinence. This is not the time for self diagnosis!
Apart from urinary incontinence, there is also bowel incontinence, which is not covered here. For more information follow the bowel incontinence Link to self help groups and related organisations.
Unfortunately, incontinence is one of the last great taboos and the embarrassment associated with the condition often means people do not seek help from their family doctor.
However, help is not far away. Every health authority or NHS Trust in the UK has a specialist team of people who make up the local Continence Advisory Service. You do not need to be referred by your doctor and you can contact a specialist Continence Advisor in strict confidence directly for an appointment. Contact the Bladder and Bowel Foundation for details of your nearest advisor. If you have a disability such as Multiple Sclerosis,or a Spinal problem from injury or other causes,such as Spina Bifida,or Cerebal Palsy follow the links on this site. There are charity organisations, such as the Bladder and Bowel Foundation, which can advise you on all manner of issues relating to your disability, including living with and managing continence .