Social media is supposed to be the ultimate space for self-expression. And in some ways, it is. There are entire communities dedicated to neurodiversity, mental health struggles, and chronic conditions. 

So, why does incontinence—something that affects millions of people, including teens—still feel so hidden? Part of the problem is curated reality. What gets posted online is often the best, most polished version of life, the highlight reel. And let’s be honest, dealing with bladder leaks doesn’t exactly fit into the whole “picture-perfect” aesthetic. 

A study published in BMC Women's Health found that social media use reinforces unrealistic beauty and lifestyle standards, making teens more self-conscious and less likely to share content that doesn’t align with these ideals [1]. If everyone else seems to be living their best life, who wants to admit they’re struggling with something like incontinence?

The Fear of Judgment in a Screenshot World

Let’s not sugarcoat it, teens can be brutal. And the internet? Even more so. One misplaced comment, one embarrassing post, and suddenly, it's a screenshot, shared, and out of your control. A 2024 report by the World Health Organization (WHO) found that approximately 15% of adolescents have experienced cyberbullying, with rates increasing since 2018 [2]. And when it comes to topics that people don’t understand, like incontinence, misinformation and cruel jokes can spread fast. That fear of being mocked, misunderstood, or turned into a meme? It’s enough to make any teen stay silent.

When Social Media Gets It Wrong

Social media isn’t just about what’s being said—it’s also about what isn’t being said. And when incontinence isn’t part of the conversation, myths and stigma fill the gap. Take TikTok, for example. It’s full of health trends, medical advice, and “hacks” (some helpful, some… not so much). But when incontinence does get mentioned, it’s often in the form of jokes about “holding it too long” or exaggerated “oops” moments.

What’s missing? Real talk. The fact that thousands of teenage girls —around 1 in 17— experience urinary incontinence [3]. That it’s not just a “little kid” thing. That it can be linked to medical conditions, stress, or simply how the body works. And most importantly, that it’s nothing to be ashamed of.

Helping Your Teen Stay Confident on Social Media While Managing Incontinence

Social media can be a great place for connection, but for teens managing incontinence, it can also feel isolating. As a parent, you can help your teen feel more confident and supported online by guiding them through a few key strategies:

1. Normalise It—Because It’s Normal

The more incontinence is treated like just another health condition, the less awkward it feels. Encourage open conversations at home so your teen knows it’s nothing to be embarrassed about. If mental health, periods, and chronic illnesses can be discussed online, so can this.

2. Encourage Private Conversations

Not every teen wants to talk about incontinence publicly, and that’s okay. Let them know they always have someone to talk to, whether it’s you, a trusted friend, or a safe online community.

3. Help Them Find Supportive Spaces

Not every online space is kind, but there are communities that can help. Encourage your teen to follow positive, body-inclusive pages and connect with private forums or support groups where they feel safe.

4. Teach Them to Call Out Myths & Misinformation

Misinformation about incontinence is everywhere. Help your teen recognise and challenge myths like “it only happens to little kids” or “it means something is wrong with you.” The more these myths are corrected, the easier it is to create a more informed and understanding online space.

5. Encourage Smart Social Media Use

Help your teen make social media work for them, not against them. Here are some tips to guide them toward a healthier and more positive online experience:

Control who sees what they post  

Privacy settings can give them control over what they share and with who they share it with. Encourage them to adjust their settings so they feel comfortable with their audience.

Think before they post 

Remind them to ask themselves: Would I be okay if this got shared beyond my followers? Could someone misinterpret or misuse this? If they’re unsure, it might be best to keep it private.

Block and report negativity 

If they come across cruel comments or misinformation, encourage them to block, report, and move on. Engaging with negativity often makes it worse.

Take breaks when needed 

If scrolling is making them feel worse instead of better, remind them that stepping away can be a good thing. Encourage them to spend time offline with supportive friends and family.

By helping your teen navigate social media in a way that feels safe and empowering, you’re giving them the confidence to own their story, however they choose to tell it.

Supporting Teens Beyond the Screen

Social media has the power to connect people, but when it comes to incontinence, it can also be a barrier. The fear of judgment, the pressure to be “perfect,” and the lack of real conversations all make it harder for teens to open up. 

But here’s the thing: the more we talk about it, the easier it gets. So let’s make space for this conversation. Let’s remind teens that their struggles are valid, their experiences are real, and they don’t have to deal with it alone. Because no one should feel like they have to hide something that’s just a part of life. And if social media isn’t ready for that conversation? Maybe it’s time to change that.