An astounding 55-60 million people in Europe are navigating life with incontinence. It’s a common condition, yet there’s still so much hush around the it.

While we totally understand the hesitancy, that’s exactly why we’re here — to chat openly and dismantle the taboos! Our goal? Empower you to voice your experiences, seek guidance, and enjoy life to the fullest. Remember, incontinence doesn't mean putting a stop to your life!

Read on for engaging insights from Jane Clarke, skilled continence nurse and Invizi ambassador, brimming with over twenty years of dedication to supporting those affected by incontinence.

What exactly is incontinence?

Incontinence typically involves unexpected leaks - whether it's urine or stool.

Urinary incontinence, the most common form of incontinence, defines the involuntary loss of urine. This can range from light drips and dribbles when a person laughs or sneezes, to full voids of the bladder.

 

Bowel, or faecal, incontinence occurs when a person has an involuntary loss of gas, liquid, or stool. It’s where a person is unable to control bowel movements and the gas, liquid or stool escapes from the rectum without warning. Similar to the different ways urinary incontinence can present, faecal incontinence can range from flatulence or light bowel leakage, up to full bowel voids.

 

With millions worldwide facing these challenges, you’re definitely not alone in experiencing either form of incontinence.

Unpacking the causes of incontinence

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

This is not true - incontinence is not a normal part of ageing and can actually be a sign of an underlying health issue. So it’s important not to just shrug the condition off and accept it as a part of growing old without seeking advice from a healthcare professional.

So if it’s not ageing that causes incontinence, what is it?

There are in fact multiple risk factors for incontinence. These include:

 

• Weak pelvic floor muscles
• Pregnancy and childbirth
• Menopause
• Obesity
• Enlarged prostate, prostate cancer
• Mobility and cognitive impairment
• Surgery (such as prolapse, prostatectomy, hysterectomy)
• Health conditions such as diabetes, dementia, stroke
• Neurological conditions or disorders
• Genetic conditions such as Down syndrome
• Developmental conditions such as autism

There are also more temporary contributors to incontinence such as urinary tract infections, constipation, medications and food and drink irritants (caffeine and alcohol for example).

Exploring the types of incontinence

Incontinence isn’t one-size-fits-all. So while we’ve mentioned the major two types of incontinence being urinary and faecal, there are also subtypes of the condition.

These are:

1. Stress Incontinence

Stress incontinence occurs when there is an increase of pressure, or stress, in the abdomen which causes downward pressure on the bladder. This stress can include actions such as coughing, laughing, sneezing, running, or heavy lifting. During these activities a small amount of urine can leak out, especially if the pelvic floor muscles, which usually help keep the bladder neck closed, are weak or damaged. Stress incontinence is more common in women, but can occur in men, especially after prostate surgery.

2. Urge Incontinence

Also known as overactive bladder (OAB), urge incontinence occurs when there is a short, sharp, sudden contraction of the bladder muscle which can cause leakage or a full bladder void. Essentially, the person with UI can’t hold until they reach the bathroom. Urge incontinence can be brought on by a urinary tract infection, or be the result of nerve damage, stroke and other health conditions. Stress and urge incontinence can also occur in combination - this is known as mixed incontinence.

3. Functional Incontinence

Functional incontinence is the term used when a person either can’t make it to the toilet in time, or can’t recognise the need to go to the toilet. This refers to both urinary and faecal incontinence, and can occur if you have issues with mobility, cognition, or you don’t have easy access to toilet facilities.

Physical disability can impact a person’s ability to use the bathroom, and cognitive conditions such as Alzheimer’s can mean the brain doesn’t recognise the body’s signal of needing to use the bathroom, or they may be disoriented in trying to find a bathroom.

4. Overflow Incontinence

This occurs when the bladder isn’t emptying properly, and small amounts of urine will ‘spill over’ and leak when the bladder volume is at maximum capacity. This is a common side-effect for conditions that obstruct the bladder, such as enlarged prostate or prolapse, or because of damage to the nervous system which controls the bladder’s function. This is a very serious condition because urinary retention can damage the detrusor (the muscle that contracts to push urine of of the bladder into the urethra) and cause urine to ‘reflux’ up towards the kidneys, affecting the renal function.

5. Reflex Incontinence

This type of urinary incontinence occurs when there is no associated warning or urge to use the toilet, and the bladder muscle contracts spontaneously. This type of incontinence is more likely to occur due to nerve damage from trauma, such as spinal cord injury, or in combination with neurological conditions, such as multiple sclerosis.

6. Bowel Dysfunction

Like urinary incontinence, bowel dysfunction can occur from a myriad of conditions and lifestyle factors. Faecal incontinence can occur because of transient factors, such as infection (gastro), diet, or food poisoning. Recurring faecal incontinence may be due to an underlying condition, such as IBS, Crohn’s, Coeliac disease, or damage to the muscle or nerves which control defecation.

It’s also important to note that faecal incontinence can occur because of faecal impaction, whereby mucus produced by the intestinal wall can make its way around solid stool in the intestinal tract and appear like diarrhoea. This is called ‘overflow’ and is generally mucous-like and pale in colour.

Can you have urinary and bowel incontinence at the same time?

Absolutely, urinary and bowel incontinence can happen at the same time. Since the bladder and bowel share the same space in the pelvis and have similar nerve pathways, damage to these structures or nerves can lead to both bladder and bowel problems.

Issues with the bowel can also influence how well the bladder works. For instance, if the bowel is impacted, it might press on the bladder, reducing its ability to hold urine or causing blockages. That's why addressing bowel problems can often help improve bladder function too!

Who is most likely to experience incontinence?

Incontinence is commonly linked with older adults or women during and after pregnancy, but it really affects people from all walks of life.

When we talk about urinary incontinence, women tend to experience it more than men. But it's important to remember that anyone, regardless of gender or age, can be affected. And the same is true for bowel incontinence—it doesn't discriminate and can impact men, women, and children alike.

Navigating incontinence treatment

Treatment and management options will very much depend on the cause of the incontinence.

They can include:

1. Lifestyle Factors

Improvements to incontinence symptoms can in some cases be achieved through simple lifestyle changes such as:

 

• Reducing caffeine and alcohol consumption
• Switching to a diet rich in whole foods and reducing intake of processed foods
• Losing weight
• Quitting smoking

2. Pelvic Floor Exercises

Earlier, we talked about how a weakened pelvic floor can lead to incontinence issues. The good news is, there are exercises specifically designed to strengthen these muscles, which can really help improve your bladder and bowel control. These exercises are particularly beneficial if you're dealing with stress or urge incontinence.

You can start with some basic pelvic floor exercises at home, but it’s a great idea to consult with a pelvic physiotherapist, too. They're experts in this area and can give you a personalised exercise plan that perfectly fits your body’s needs.

3. Medications

Medications are also available which can improve bladder storage, prevent constipation, and improve the consistency of bowel motions. These should first be discussed with a pharmacist or GP.

4. Surgeries and Procedures

When it comes to bladder and bowel issues that stem from structural problems, sometimes you might need to consider more direct treatments like Botox injections or even surgery. These procedures are usually handled by specialists such as urologists or colorectal surgeons, and they're typically considered after you've tried less invasive options like pelvic floor rehab or medications.

Catheters are also used to help with bladder emptying. For men, external catheters fit over the penis like a condom and have a tube connected to a collection bag. There are also intermittent catheters—these are small tubes that are temporarily inserted into the bladder through the urethra to drain urine and then removed. You’d use these several times a day.

For long-term needs, indwelling or Foley catheters are an option. They stay in place inside the bladder, either inserted through the urethra or via a small incision just above the pubic area. These catheters either drain into a collection bag or can be emptied through a valve.

5. Incontinence Aids

If the above treatment options are not appropriate or fail, people suffering with incontinence may opt to use absorbent products.

Many of these products contain super absorbent polymers (SAPs) which hold large volumes of liquid, drawing fluid away from the skin and keeping the wearer dry and comfortable for extended periods. Absorbent products come in many shapes and sizes depending on the severity of incontinence and the needs of the individual.


Our range of incontinence aids - including pants, slips, pads, guards and furniture protectors - are made with rapid-dry technology that absorb and disperse liquid quickly and effectively so you can continue to live life comfortably and confidently!

If you’re not sure which products are right for your needs, don’t hesitate to contact us and speak to one of our friendly and knowledgeable product specialists. They can help you find the best product for your level of incontinence.

Otherwise, you can try our online quiz where you’ll be asked a few simple but comprehensive questions before being recommended your top matched products.

What incontinence products should you wear?

This will differ in terms of your type and severity of incontinence. Here is a cheat-sheet, if you will, for which products can be used for different types of incontinence:

• Pads and guards are used to manage light bladder leaks only - with pads for women, and guards for men.
• Pants are designed for those with moderate urinary incontinence and some faecal incontinence.
• Slips are recommended for those with low-mobility and/or no bladder or bowel control.

Then of course there are accessories such as bed and furniture waterproof protectors and booster pads that add an extra layer of protection and absorbency to pants and slips.

Is there a cure for incontinence?

It's encouraging to know that many types of incontinence can be reversed, depending on what's causing the issue.

Often, simple changes can make a big difference. This could mean tweaking your diet, adjusting how much and what kinds of fluids you drink, losing weight, quitting smoking, and keeping up with pelvic floor exercises. Managing any chronic diseases you have is also part of this mix.

For some people, medications can clear up incontinence issues, and sometimes more involved treatments like surgeries can provide a long-term fix or at least significant improvement.

However, there are times when incontinence might not be fully resolvable, especially with neurological or progressive degenerative conditions. But don't worry - healthcare providers are there to help create the best management plan tailored just for you.

Support resources for incontinence

You’re not alone; support abounds from various organisations dedicated to providing help and resources to those dealing with incontinence.


For those dealing with incontinence and mental health issues in Europe, there are several online and phone-based resources that offer support and information. Here are some key organisations and services available:

• Association Française d'Urologie: General information can be found on their website; they provide resources and referrals.
• Santé Mentale France:  They offer various resources and local support options; specific phone numbers can be found through their service directory.

Whether you're seeking help for incontinence or mental health issues, these resources offer supportive environments to discuss your concerns and find professional help. Always ensure to check the latest contact details and services offered directly through the organisation’s official website or by contacting them.

Advice for caregivers of people with incontinence

Chatting openly about continence issues can really lighten the load, easing any discomfort or embarrassment that someone experiencing incontinence might feel. Remember, incontinence can often be a sign of something else going on regarding a person’s health — it's definitely not something done on purpose. Keeping a calm and supportive vibe when mishaps occur and having the necessary supplies ready can make a big difference.

There's a wide array of continence aids tailored to meet different needs, and various programs at the national and departmental levels in France are available to assist with accessing and affording these products. If you're looking for some guidance, your doctor, the Association Française d'Urologie or our Invizi customer service team can help steer you in the right direction.

Planning is key, especially when it comes to access and safety. Opt for easy-to-wear clothes with elastic waistbands, keep essentials like urinals or commodes within easy reach, and consider having a night light on and clearing the way to the bathroom to prevent trips and falls. Think about installing raised toilet seats and grab rails if balance is an issue, and use signage to help those who might struggle with memory loss.

And always take your time - respect and privacy are paramount.

Keeping an eye on skin health is also crucial because incontinence can increase the risk of skin issues. Change wet or soiled pads promptly and gently clean the area with warm water or wipes. Applying barrier creams can prevent irritation, and remember to use gloves for hygiene and safety.

Just a heads up - don't flush pads, gloves, or wipes; they go in the regular trash.

Be on the lookout for signs that might require a doctor's visit, like irregular bowel movements, signs of a urinary tract infection (UTI), or skin irritation that doesn't improve with care. These can include symptoms like cloudy or foul-smelling urine, unusual tiredness, pain, or sudden changes in bladder control.

Caring for someone with incontinence can be taxing, so make sure to take breaks to recharge. If you're feeling overwhelmed or stressed, it's okay to talk to your doctor or a mental health professional for support. Remember, taking care of yourself is just as important as the care you provide.

If you or a loved one need immediate mental health support, don’t hesitate to contact SOS Amitié by calling 09 72 39 40 50. They are available 24/7 and can be contacted through various means, including phone and online chat.

What do caregivers need for someone with incontinence?

There's a whole variety of helpful items out there we recommend having in your carer kit!

You can find everything from disposable to washable products like pads, pants, and nappy-style pants called slips. The choice of product really depends on what the person you’re caring for prefers and needs. Plus, it’s always good to have some disposable gloves, wipes, nappy bags, barrier cream, and hand sanitiser on hand.

To keep your home fresh and clean, consider getting some mattress and pillow protectors, waterproof bedding, and absorbent pads for beds and chairs. Non-slip floor mats and specialised cleaning products can also be a big help.

And don’t forget about assistive devices! Things like extendable bottom wipes, slide sheets, commodes, urinals, bidets, raised toilet seats, and toilet frames can make life a lot easier.

If you're looking for more tailored advice, occupational therapists and continence nurse advisors are fantastic resources. They're experts at suggesting the right products and strategies for managing incontinence.

How should a carer change an incontinence product on the person they care for?

Changing an incontinence product for someone you care for can seem tricky, especially if they have limited mobility. Here’s a friendly guide to make the process a bit easier.

If you're using disposable products, you might find slips simpler to manage than pull-up pants because their velcro side-tabs make them easier to apply and remove and don’t require the wearer to stand up.

For those who are bedbound, here’s what to do:

Make sure the bed is flat and the side rails are up to prevent any falls. It can also help to have another person there to assist. Gently help the person to roll to one side. This makes it possible to remove the soiled product safely. You'll want to unfasten the product, gently pull it out from between their legs, and roll it up under their bottom. Then, carefully roll them to the other side to completely remove the product.

While they’re still on their side, it’s a good time to clean their intimate areas. You can then apply some barrier cream to protect their skin. Placing a towel or a disposable pad underneath them during this process helps keep the bedding clean.

Next, place the clean product in position, fasten one side, and tuck the rest under them, ready to fasten the other side once they roll back.

After everything is securely fastened, help them back into a comfortable position and tidy up the bed.

Remember, changing incontinence products is a very personal task, so it’s important to respect their privacy and dignity throughout the process.

How to live with incontinence

Living with incontinence will take some lifestyle changes, but we have to stress that it doesn’t need to control your life!

We understand that it can be challenging adjusting to this new way of life, but we hope after reading the above - and what’s to come - your spirits are lifted.

Some daily management tips for incontinence you may find helpful are:

1. Plan Ahead

If you’re heading out for the day, make sure you’ve packed a bag with your incontinence aids and even a spare change of clothes in case of any accidents.

Taking a waterproof protector to use on your car seat is also helpful in protecting against any accidental leaks.

Checking where bathrooms are at the place you’re heading to can also ease your mind because you’ll know ahead of time where to go if you need one urgently.

2. Avoid Triggers

As mentioned, certain foods and drinks can trigger incontinence episodes. Be mindful of what you’re consuming as it can really make a difference in your symptoms.

3. Stay Hydrated

Now this one can confuse people sometimes because they think, “if I’m experiencing urinary incontinence I shouldn’t drink too much water!” But that couldn’t be further from the truth.

While, yes, your doctor may suggest some adjustments to your liquid intake, keeping hydrated is crucial to maintaining bladder and bowel function and helps you avoid things like a urinary tract infection (UTI).

4. Keep Active

Maintaining a health weight and continuing to move your body if you can will help in maintaining your bladder and bowel health. Some research has shown that a five-unit increase in body mass index (BMI) is associated with a 60% increase in the risk of urinary incontinence [1].

Alternatively, if you lose 10% of your body weight, that can lower your risk of urinary incontinence episodes by 50% [1].

What should I do if incontinence is affecting my mental health?

Feeling a bit down because of your incontinence isn't something to be embarrassed about—it's totally understandable. And hey, remember you're not going through this alone. There's plenty of support out there for you.

If you're feeling overwhelmed, don't hesitate to chat with your doctor about it. They can help connect you with a psychologist or another mental health professional who really gets it.

Plus, there are loads of free resources available anytime you need—day or night, every day of the week. Here’s what you can tap into:

In France, there are several 24/7 mental health resources available to help individuals at any time of the day or night. These services provide support for those experiencing mental health issues, including crises.

Here are some of the key services:

1. SOS Amitié

Phone: 09 72 39 40 50
Offers emotional support and a listening ear to those in distress, helping to manage feelings of loneliness or depression.

2. SOS Suicide Phénix

Phone: 01 40 44 46 45 (Paris) or 0825 120 364 (national number)
Specialises in providing support to individuals experiencing suicidal thoughts or behaviours.

3. Fil Santé Jeunes

Phone: 0800 235 236
Specifically targeted at young people, offering confidential and free support on health and mental health issues.

4. Écoute Psychiatrie

Phone: 01 45 65 81 08
A dedicated line for psychiatric support.

 

These resources are vital for providing immediate help and support, ensuring that individuals can access professional assistance when they need it most.

For emergencies call 112. 

We hope you found this article useful, packed with handy info and tips on managing both urinary and bowel incontinence - whether it's for you or someone you're caring for.

If you're looking for a bit more guidance on choosing the right incontinence products, we're just a phone call, email, or WhatsApp message away!

Don't hesitate to reach out, we’d love to help you on your journey.