Incontinence
Learn how to prevent and manage bladder and bowel control problems, recognize when to seek medical help, and find treatment and support.
On this page
✓ When to get your hearing tested
✓ When to seek medical help
✓ Talking to your healthcare provider
✓ Managing incontinence
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Download printable PDFOriginally published:
March 2024 by the Pacific Regional Centre for Healthy Aging (PRCHA)
Disclaimer
This article was originally developed for the Pacific Regional Centre for Healthy Aging. Health information and recommendations can change as new research becomes available. Some statistics, recommendations, and external resources may have been updated since this article was first published.
This information is for general education purposes only and does not replace advice from a healthcare professional.
Steps you can take today
Incontinence means accidentally losing urine (pee) or stool (poop) because you cannot always control when you empty your bladder or bowels.
The ability to control when you empty your bladder and bowels is called continence. Most adults maintain this ability throughout their lives.
Incontinence is not an inevitable part of getting older. Many older adults never experience it, and there are ways to prevent, improve, or manage symptoms.
What can incontinence look like?
Losing a little urine when you cough, sneeze, laugh, or lift something heavy.
Feeling a sudden, strong need to use the toilet but not reaching it in time.
Experiencing a small amount of urine leakage after you think you have finished emptying your bladder.
Losing stool unexpectedly or having difficulty controlling bowel movements.
Why is it important to address?
Incontinence is a health condition, not simply an inconvenience. It can affect your comfort, confidence, and daily life.
Some people begin avoiding exercise, social activities, or hobbies because they worry about accidents. Over time, this can affect their physical health, social connections, and wellbeing.
You do not have to manage incontinence alone. A healthcare provider can help identify possible causes and recommend appropriate treatments or strategies.
Steps you can take today
Everyday habits can help protect your bladder and bowel health. The original Pacific Regional Centre for Healthy Aging guide highlights three important steps, along with other healthy routines you can practice.
Drink enough fluids
Staying hydrated helps support bladder and bowel health. Water is a good everyday choice.
- Drink fluids regularly throughout the day rather than avoiding water because you are worried about leaks.
- If you often wake up at night to urinate, consider drinking more of your fluids earlier in the day and reducing drinks close to bedtime.
- Notice whether caffeine, alcohol, or carbonated drinks make your symptoms worse.
Strengthen your pelvic floor muscles
Pelvic floor exercises, often called Kegel exercises, can help improve bladder and bowel control. They can be useful for people of all genders.
Doing these exercises correctly matters. A healthcare provider or pelvic floor physiotherapist can help you learn the right technique.
See HealthLink BC's guide to Kegel exercises .
Pay attention to your body's signals
Notice when you feel the need to urinate or have a bowel movement. Avoid routinely delaying bathroom visits for long periods.
If you frequently experience sudden urges or leaks, a healthcare provider may recommend a planned bathroom schedule or bladder training.
More habits that can help
Small changes to your daily routine may also help prevent or reduce incontinence.
Eat fibre-rich foods
Whole grains, oatmeal, vegetables, and other fibre-rich foods can help prevent constipation, which may contribute to bladder and bowel problems.
Practice good bathroom hygiene
If you have a vulva, wiping from front to back can help reduce the spread of bacteria that may cause urinary tract infections.
Take your time on the toilet
Avoid rushing. Give yourself time to empty your bladder or bowels comfortably, without straining.
Stay physically active
Regular movement supports bowel function, mobility, and your ability to reach the bathroom when needed.
Review your medications
Some medications can affect bladder or bowel control. Ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist whether any of yours could contribute to symptoms.
Make healthy lifestyle choices
Quitting smoking and managing weight, when appropriate, may help reduce the likelihood or severity of urinary incontinence.
Changes take time. If you are experiencing incontinence, you do not need to wait for lifestyle changes to work before seeking help. A healthcare provider can help you choose strategies that suit your needs.
When to seek medical help
Many people feel embarrassed talking about bladder or bowel control. However, incontinence is a common health concern, and healthcare providers are familiar with diagnosing and treating it.
Do not wait until symptoms become severe to ask for help. Changes in bladder or bowel control can have different causes, and treatment is often available.
Signs to discuss with a healthcare provider
Make an appointment if you notice any of the following:
Needing to urinate more often than usual or experiencing sudden, strong urges.
Cloudy urine or a noticeable change in the appearance of your urine.
Pain, burning, or discomfort while urinating.
Urinating eight or more times a day, especially if this is a change for you.
Difficulty starting to urinate, a weak stream, or passing only small amounts.
New bowel leakage, constipation, or other changes in bowel movements.
Symptoms that need prompt attention
Some symptoms may indicate an infection, blockage, or another condition that needs more urgent assessment.
- Blood in your urine: Contact a healthcare provider promptly, even if you have no pain.
- Unable to urinate: Seek urgent medical care if your bladder feels full but you cannot pass urine.
- Fever with urinary symptoms: Seek prompt assessment, particularly if you also have back or side pain.
- Sudden loss of bladder or bowel control with new leg weakness or numbness around the groin: Go to an emergency department immediately.
If you are unsure how urgently you need care in British Columbia, call 8-1-1 for non-emergency health advice.
Where can you get help?
Your primary care provider is a good place to start. They can review your symptoms, check for possible causes, and discuss treatment options.
Family doctor or nurse practitioner
Ask about your symptoms and whether tests, treatment, or a referral to a specialist would help.
Walk-in clinic or urgent primary care
If you do not have a regular healthcare provider, a clinic can help assess your symptoms and recommend next steps.
Incontinence is treatable or manageable for many people. Seeking help early may improve your comfort, confidence, and ability to stay active.
Talk to your healthcare provider
Talking about bladder or bowel control can feel uncomfortable. Many people avoid mentioning symptoms because they feel embarrassed or believe incontinence is simply part of aging.
Healthcare providers regularly discuss personal health concerns. Being open about your symptoms can help them understand what is happening and recommend appropriate care.
Not sure what to say?
You do not need to know medical terms. Describe what you are experiencing in your own words.
Prepare for your appointment
It may help to write down a few details before speaking with your healthcare provider.
When symptoms started and whether they have changed over time.
How often symptoms occur, including daytime and nighttime bathroom visits.
What happens before a leak, such as coughing, exercising, or experiencing a sudden urge.
Any other symptoms, including pain, constipation, or difficulty emptying your bladder.
Medications and supplements you currently take.
How incontinence affects your daily life, including sleep, activities, or social plans.
Questions you can ask
- What might be causing my symptoms?
- Are there tests that could help identify the cause?
- What treatments or lifestyle changes might help me?
- Would pelvic floor physiotherapy be appropriate for me?
- Should I see a specialist or visit a continence clinic?
Getting specialized support
Incontinence can have different causes, so treatment varies from person to person.
Your family doctor or nurse practitioner may recommend a specialist, such as a urologist, or another healthcare professional with experience in bladder and bowel health.
You can also ask about a continence clinic or a pelvic floor physiotherapist if these services are appropriate for your symptoms.
You deserve to feel comfortable asking for help. The more clearly you describe your symptoms, the easier it is for your healthcare provider to work with you on a treatment plan.
Managing incontinence
Incontinence does not have to stop you from enjoying an active and fulfilling life. There are practical ways to manage symptoms and feel more comfortable throughout the day.
The right approach depends on your individual needs. A healthcare provider can help you find strategies and products that work for your situation.
Choose appropriate absorbent products
Products designed for incontinence can help manage leaks and protect clothing, furniture, and bedding.
Options include:
- Absorbent incontinence pads
- Protective underwear
- Bed and furniture protectors
Choose products designed for incontinence. Menstrual pads, toilet paper, and paper towels may not absorb urine effectively and can contribute to leakage or skin irritation.
Your healthcare provider or pharmacist can help you choose suitable products. They may also know about free samples or other available support.
Plan regular bathroom visits
Some people find it helpful to visit the toilet at planned times rather than waiting until the need becomes urgent.
A healthcare provider can help determine whether a scheduled toileting routine would be useful for you.
Make the bathroom easier to reach
Small changes around your home can make bathroom visits safer and more convenient.
- Keep the path to the bathroom clear of obstacles.
- Consider a bedside commode if reaching the toilet is difficult.
- Keep walking aids nearby when you need them.
- Wear clothing that is easy to remove and put back on.
Protect your skin
Frequent exposure to moisture can irritate your skin, particularly when using absorbent products.
Change wet products regularly, clean your skin gently, and keep it dry.
A barrier cream may help protect sensitive skin. Ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist which product is appropriate for you.
How other health conditions can affect incontinence
Some health conditions can make it harder to control your bladder or bowels, recognize when you need the toilet, or reach the bathroom in time.
Conditions affecting the nervous system
Diabetes, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's disease, dementia, delirium, and stroke may affect bladder or bowel control. Some conditions can also make it harder to recognize the need to use the toilet.
Mobility and joint problems
Arthritis, broken bones, or recovery from joint replacement surgery can make it difficult to move quickly or use the toilet comfortably.
Diabetes and bladder sensation
Diabetes can sometimes affect the nerves that help you sense when your bladder is full. This may contribute to difficulties with bladder control.
Support is available. Even when incontinence is related to another health condition, healthcare providers can recommend strategies, treatments, and practical changes to help you manage symptoms.
Resources
These organizations and guides offer additional information about bladder and bowel control, treatment options, pelvic floor health, and available support.
Learn more about incontinence
Canadian Continence Foundation
Information and educational resources about bladder and bowel control, different types of incontinence, and approaches to treatment and management.
Visit the Canadian Continence FoundationHealthLink BC
Health information for British Columbians, including guidance about urinary incontinence and when to seek care.
Visit HealthLink BCKegel exercises — HealthLink BC
Learn about pelvic floor muscle exercises and how they may help improve bladder control.
Read the Kegel exercise guideGuides and downloadable booklets
A Woman's Health Issue: Helping to Manage Incontinence
A guide to understanding incontinence, recognizing symptoms, and exploring treatment and management options.
View the guide (PDF)A Man's Health Guide: Bowel/Bladder Continence
Information about bladder and bowel control, common symptoms, and approaches to managing incontinence.
View the guide (PDF)Pelvic floor health for trans and non-binary people
Gender-affirming pelvic floor health information and exercise resources for trans and non-binary people.
Explore gender-affirming care bookletsFind information and support
HealthLink BC — 8-1-1
If you have questions about your health or need help finding healthcare services in British Columbia, contact HealthLink BC.
8-1-1Health information and navigation services are available by phone. Translation services are also available.
For people who are deaf or hard of hearing, dial 7-1-1.
Canadian Continence Foundation
The original PRCHA resource lists the Canadian Continence Foundation as a source of information and support for people experiencing incontinence.
Phone: 1-855-415-3917
Need help choosing a treatment or management strategy? Your family doctor, nurse practitioner, pharmacist, or another qualified healthcare provider can help you understand your options and find appropriate support.
Need more help?
🟦 HealthLink BC
📞 Call 811 (24/7)
Health information and advice from registered nurses, dietitians, pharmacists, exercise professionals, and health service navigators.
🟩 BC 211
📞 Call 211 (24/7)
Community programs, financial assistance, housing, transportation, caregiving, resources, and more.
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