WEST Wimmera Health Service has urged the community to take incontinence more seriously after new research shows majority of people affected simply laugh it off.
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Last week, the service recognised World Continence Week.
A Continence Foundation survey revealed 85 per cent of women with incontinence simply laugh it off.
Bladder and bowel control problems affect one in four people, and they can significantly effect a person’s daily quality of life.
West Wimmera Health Service continence nurse adviser Tracey Merrett said the service had advice, resources and assistance for anyone experiencing bladder or bowel control problems.
Ms Merrett encouraged anyone with continence related issues to seek help.
“Incontinence is no laughing matter, nor should it be an embarrassing one to speak up about,” she said.
“We want to help any person suffering in silence from incontinence to feel confident to seek our support so they can hopefully improve their quality of life and no longer need to laugh off a problem that can be treated.”
Continence Foundation chief executive Rowan Cockerell said incontinence might be common, but it shouldn’t be considered normal, or a natural part of ageing or having a baby.
“It’s disappointing to think people are laughing off or dismissing a problem that, in the majority of cases, can be cured or better managed,” she said.
“We know that, left untreated, incontinence will not go away, but will often become a bigger problem as time goes on.
“People who ignore the issue are often unaware of the impact incontinence can have on their lifestyle, whether it’s avoiding exercise or limiting social engagements for fear of an embarrassing accident.
“The good news is treatment usually involves simple lifestyle changes and daily pelvic floor muscle exercises, which everyone should be doing anyway.”
Ms Merrett said people could call her on 5391 4267 for more information about consultations.
