Talking about incontinence this World Continence Week

There are some subjects that can feel more embarrassing to talk about than others, and because of this, we may not talk about them, such as incontinence. However, there should certainly be no shame around any health condition. This week is World Continence Week, making now a great time to talk about incontinence.

At the 2022 Female Veterans & Veterans’ Families Policy Forum, urinary incontinence was identified as a big issue for women who are veterans. Actually, you might be surprised to know urinary incontinence impacts up to 38 per cent of Australian women, with over half under 50 years of age.

Urinary incontinence is when someone loses control of their bladder, resulting in involuntary leakage or urination. There are several factors that make people more at risk of developing including things such as being overweight, pregnancy, child birth and menopause.  

Living with any type of incontinence can be challenging but it shouldn’t hold you back. DVA offers support to eligible veterans living with faecal or urinary incontinence through the

• Rehabilitation Appliances Program (RAP): continence products can be used to help you manage urinary and/or faecal leakage. They include things such as pads, pants, catheters and bed and chair protection. Products can be prescribed by a qualified assessing health provider and provided to you at no cost.

For more information about the RAP, including eligibility visit www.dva.gov.au or call 1800 VETERAN (1800 838 372).

The Continence Foundation of Australia has more information available online, you can also schedule a free confidential call with a Nurse Continence Specialist at www.continence.org.au

Or you can contact the National Continence Helpline from 8am – 8pm on 1800 33 00 66