Continence Advice for Women

Specific advice for women living with continence issues.

What is the treatment for female incontinence?

There are four main categories in the treatment of female incontinence:

• Diagnose
• Conservative treatment
• Medication
• Surgery

What is the first time treatment for female incontinence?

The first time treatment for female incontinence is called Conservative treatment. This type of treatment does not involve medicines or surgery and is carried out before any further medical intervention. Conservative treatments include lifestyle changes, and pelvic floor muscle training, also called Kegel exercises.

What causes urinary incontinence in older females?

Incontinence can happen for many reasons, including urinary tract infections, vaginal infection or irritation, or constipation. Some medications can cause bladder control problems that last a short time. When incontinence lasts longer, it may be due to a weak bladder or pelvic floor muscles.

What are the different types of catheters for women?

Intermittent Self Dilatation (ISD)

A urethral stricture is a narrowing of a section of the urethra, which carries urine from the bladder to the outside of the body. To keep the urethral passage open and aid the flow of urine, a urethral catheter needs to be used to widen this section (facilitating dilatation). Learn more about Intermittent Self Dilatation for Women.

Intermittent Self Catheterisation (ISC)

Intermittent Self Catheterisation (ISC) is the passing of a catheter through the urethra and into the bladder to drain urine. ISC might need to be performed as the bladder may have lost the ability to empty properly. This could be permanent or temporary. Learn more about Intermittent Self Catheterisation for Women.