Physiotherapists from Holy Cross Hospital’s outpatients’ unit have participated in an European-wide campaign aimed at raising awareness around urological conditions and treatments. 

The focus of this year’s Urology Week was incontinence, an issue that is a very common problem for women and one which can be very distressing.

As part of Holy Cross Hospital’s commitment to improving women’s health, experienced physiotherapists Jenny and Jo hosted a live online conversation about incontinence. They covered topics such as stress incontinence, practical tips for managing symptoms, urge incontinence, why it happens and how it can be treated and what a women’s health physiotherapist can do to help. 

Women’s health expert Jenny Deeming’s advice to women is: “Don’t suffer in silence – there’s no need to be embarrassed. Whilst incontinence is not life threatening it does impact on quality of life. It’s a really common problem and is very treatable. The two conditions I see most frequently in women are stress incontinence which is when activities such as sneezing, laughing, and exercise cause a little leak of urine, and urge incontinence which is when you feel a sudden and very urgent need to get to the toilet. 

“The causes of these problems vary but are common in women whose muscles have been weakened by childbirth. Our treatment plans are personalised to the individual and may include pelvic floor muscle training or lifestyle changes. Whatever the problem, I want to encourage women to come forward and seek the help they deserve in a supportive and professional environment.”

A recording of the conversation and additional support material can be found on the women’s health page.

Jenny and Jo in conversation.