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The involuntary or unwanted loss of even a few drops of urine is an episode of urinary incontinence.

Incontinence affects self-esteem, motivation, dignity, independence, and the ability to enjoy intimate relationships. It is estimated to be a problem for two million Australians including one out of every three women who have ever had a baby. Fortunately, help is available for all of these people.

Physiotherapy has been proven to be a cost effective and successful form of treatment for both male and female urinary incontinence. The research evidence supporting physiotherapy management is strong. In a recent major Australian study it was found that eighty-four per cent of women with stress urinary incontinence (leaking with activities such as coughing, sneezing, jumping) were cured with the help of pelvic floor muscle training taught by physiotherapists with a special interest in pelvic floor rehabilitation and the average number of visits required was only five. Physiotherapy (pelvic floor muscle training) has also proven to be effective in preventing urinary incontinence. In addition research shows that men who have physiotherapy after prostatectomy are much more likely to regain continence after three months than men who do not.

So if you, or a family member, suffer from even ‘mild’ incontinence it makes sense to talk to your physiotherapist about what can be done. There are physiotherapists throughout Australia with a special interest in helping people with incontinence regain control of their bladder. Your physiotherapist will be able to refer you to one of these. In some cases physiotherapy may not be the most appropriate form of management, in which case your physiotherapist would refer you to the most appropriate health professional. Don’t feel that you have to suffer in silence. Talk to your physiotherapist today.