Incontinence - including both urinary and bowel control issues - is far more common than many people realise. Millions of Australians live with this often-private concern, yet the stigma around it still prevents many from seeking help.

Understanding the condition is the first step towards better health and dignity. At Fresh Therapeutics Compounding Pharmacy, we're here to support you through professional advice, empathy, and practical solutions.

What Is Incontinence?

Incontinence refers to the involuntary loss of bladder or bowel control, which can range from small leaks to a complete loss of function. Over 7.2 million Australians aged 15 and over live with some form of incontinence - that’s nearly one in four people.

Despite its prevalence, around 70% of people living with incontinence do not seek help, often due to embarrassment or a misconception that it's a normal part of ageing. It’s not. Incontinence can be effectively managed and treated with the right care.

Why It Matters

Incontinence can affect not only your physical health but also your emotional wellbeing, social confidence, and day-to-day independence. The good news is that many people manage their condition successfully with tailored advice, therapies, and aids.

Types of Incontinence

• Urinary incontinence is common in women and is often linked to pregnancy, childbirth, menopause, or chronic health issues. It may present as stress incontinence (leakage during activity like coughing or sneezing) or urge incontinence (a sudden, strong urge to urinate).

• Bowel incontinence involves the accidental loss of faeces or wind. It can occur in both older and younger people and often co-exists with bladder control issues.

Lifestyle Tips for Managing Incontinence

• Drink 1.5–2 litres of water per day unless advised otherwise by your healthcare provider.

• Limit caffeinated drinks like coffee, cola, and energy drinks.

• Maintain a high-fibre diet to prevent constipation, which can aggravate symptoms.

• Manage your weight — even small losses can improve symptoms.

• Do pelvic floor exercises regularly to strengthen key muscles.

• Don’t delay seeking help if you suspect a urinary tract infection.

• Only go to the toilet when you actually need to — avoid the “just in case” habit.

Where to Get Help

Early assessment is essential to finding the right solution. A continence health professional can identify the cause and recommend the most effective treatment.

The National Continence Helpline on 1800 33 00 66 is a free, confidential service staffed by continence nurse advisors. They provide expert advice for people with incontinence and their carers.

You can also visit continence.org.au for information and tools, including a symptom checker and support programs.

How Fresh Therapeutics Compounding Pharmacy Can Support You

At Fresh Therapeutics Compounding Pharmacy, we’re proud to support Australians living with bladder and bowel control issues by providing:

• Private, discreet advice from trained pharmacy staff

• Continence Aids Payment Scheme (CAPS) information

• A curated range of continence products for day or night use

• Pelvic floor exercise tools such as the KGoal® and Elise®

• Self Care Fact Cards on bladder health, pelvic floor exercises, bowel health, and urinary tract infections

• Guidance on incontinence-friendly routines and products for daily life

Final Word

Incontinence is not something to be ashamed of, and it's certainly not something you need to face alone. Support is available, and seeking help can significantly improve your quality of life.

Visit Fresh Therapeutics Compounding Pharmacy, Bondi Junction, or contact us today to learn more about managing incontinence with confidence and care.