Bladder problems in adults

What’s wrong?

Types of bladder problems

It is important to know that a lot can be done to cure, treat, improve or manage bladder problems, which are often difficult to talk about. It is not an inevitable consequence of ageing and there is a much wider choice of treatments, products and management options available to people.

Stress incontinence

Leakage of urine on exertion such as coughing, sneezing or exercising.

Urge incontinence

Leakage of urine when the sensation to pass urine is too great that there is not time to reach the toilet.

Mixed incontinence

A mix of stress and urge incontinence.

Functional incontinence

When mobility or dexterity or poor access to toilets leads to incontinence but the bladder and bowel are healthy.

Overflow incontinence

Urine leakage when the bladder is not fully emptying so the bladder overfills and leaks when too full.

Don’t suffer in silence

What can I do?

  • Seek early help. and don’t suffer or self-manage in silence
  • Speak to your GP or health professional
  • Did you know that there are several specialist services? These include local bladder and bowel or continence services, pelvic health physiotherapy, occupational therapy, urology, colorectal services, gastroenterology and urogynaecology.
  • Explore our information libraries and helpline services
Confidential national helpline

Speak to specialist nurses and our continence product expert.

Receive advice on bladder and bowel health issues, continence promotion and options for managing incontinence, as well as signposting to local services.