9. Myth busters
Men can also experience incontinence. Whilst it’s more common in women in younger age groups (often due to childbirth and hormonal changes), many men develop incontinence in later years due to things like prostate problems or conditions like dementia or stroke.
With dementia, incontinence is not only about memory. It can also involve difficulty recognising the need to go to the toilet, problems finding or using the toilet, reduced mobility, or changes in how the brain controls the bladder and bowel (see section 1 for more information).
Pelvic floor weakness is just one of many causes. Others include nerve damage, medications, infections, constipation, prostate issues, and changes in brain function (see section 2 for more information).
Drinking too much can increase the need to get to the toilet quickly, but reducing fluids too much can actually make symptoms worse and lead to dehydration or urinary tract infections. Aim for balanced, regular hydration and reduce fluids a couple of hours before bedtime if getting up in the night is a problem (see section 2 for more information).
Incontinence is more common with older age, but it is not an inevitable or “normal” part of ageing. It sometimes has treatable causes and should always be assessed by a healthcare professional (see section 1 for more information).
It can occur at any stage but is more common in middle and later stages. Early on, it may be occasional or related to confusion or linked to another underlying health problem, while later stages may also involve more physical and neurological changes affecting continence (see section 1 for more information).
Not necessarily. With the right support - such as routine toileting, adjustments to your bathroom, medication review or using the right products - symptoms can improve or be well managed (see sections 2 and section 3 for more information).
Modern incontinence products are designed to be discreet, comfortable, and effective. Many are barely noticeable under clothing (see section 4 for more information).
Pads are only one option. There are many strategies, including using routines, diet changes, using other continence products and adjustments in the home that can help (see sections 2, section 3 and section 4 for more information).
Incontinence can usually be managed discreetly. With the right products, clothing, and planning, most people around you won’t be aware. Most people would be surprised at how many people around them are living with incontinence.
There are different types (urge, stress, overflow, functional, etc.), and each person’s experience is different. Management should be tailored to the individual.
Bladder size is rarely the issue. Incontinence is more often related to how the bladder functions or how the brain and nerves control it or the ability to get to the toilet.
Incontinence is not usually a matter of life or death, but it can hugely affect quality of life and might indicate underlying health problems such as infection or medication side effects. It should always be taken seriously.
Holding urine too long can worsen symptoms and increase infection risk. Forcing frequent trips “just in case” can also disrupt normal bladder patterns. A structured toileting routine is more effective.
Physical activity is beneficial for everyone. Avoiding it can weaken muscles and worsen symptoms. With the right strategies (like using continence products and planning ahead), most people don’t need to let incontinence stop them being active.
Incontinence is a very common health issue, not something to be ashamed of. Talking about it openly helps people get the support, treatment and dignity they deserve (see section 7 for more information).