Incontinence describes any accidental or involuntary loss of urine from the bladder (urinary incontinence) or bowel motion, faeces or wind from the bowel (faecal or bowel incontinence).
Incontinence and continence problems affect people of all ages, gender, cultures and backgrounds. For example, women after baby may experience loss of bladder control. Children may wet the bed and some adults have limited to no bladder control at night.
Incontinence is a widespread condition that ranges in severity from 'just a small leak' to complete loss of bladder or bowel control. In fact, over 6 million Australians have bladder or bowel control problems for a variety of reasons.