World Continence Week - June 16th - 22nd
World Continence Week: Why Pelvic Health Matters
World Continence Week is a global initiative dedicated to raising awareness of bladder and bowel issues, chronic pelvic pain, and other debilitating conditions that significantly impact the lives of patients, families, and carers.
The themes for 2025 focus on a range of interconnected issues, including Shared Decision Making, Incontinence and Mental Health, Overactive Bladder, Faecal Incontinence, Sustainability, and Menopause.
Source: WFIPP
These topics shine a spotlight on the physical and emotional challenges faced by individuals with continence-related conditions, many of whom remain undiagnosed or unsupported due to stigma or lack of awareness.
Urinary Incontinence: More Common Than You Think
Incontinence, defined as the involuntary leakage of urine, is a common and often distressing condition affecting both men and women. Yet, despite how widespread it is, many people suffer in silence.
Embarrassment and the belief that incontinence is a normal part of ageing are major barriers to seeking help. In reality, urinary incontinence is not something you simply have to live with.
Research shows that up to one third of women over 40 experience significant urinary symptoms
However, only around 4% actually seek medical treatment
This silent suffering is unnecessary, especially when physiotherapy offers an effective, non-invasive treatment option that can significantly improve quality of life.
Expert Pelvic Health Support for Men and Women
At Ballsbridge Physiotherapy Clinic, we specialise in the assessment and treatment of all types of urinary incontinence. These include:
Stress incontinence: leakage during activities like coughing, sneezing, laughing, or exercise
Urgency incontinence: a sudden, strong need to urinate, often with little warning
Overactive bladder
Mixed incontinence (a combination of stress and urgency symptoms)
Our treatment begins with a thorough assessment, followed by a personalised plan tailored to your needs. This may involve:
Pelvic floor muscle training to improve strength and control
Education on bladder habits and toileting routines
Tools like biofeedback and electrotherapy to support proper technique and engagement of the pelvic floor muscles
Research has shown that patients who engage in targeted pelvic floor training are up to eight times more likely to see significant improvement in their symptoms.
Understanding the Causes - For Men and Women
Urinary incontinence can affect people at any stage of life, and for a variety of reasons.
In women, common contributing factors include:
Pregnancy and childbirth
Menopause
Age-related weakening of pelvic floor muscles
Poor toileting habits or an under active pelvic floor
In men, incontinence is often associated with:
Prostate-related conditions
Prostate surgery (especially prostatectomy), which can temporarily weaken pelvic floor muscles
Despite the causes, the outcome is the same: unwanted leakage that can affect confidence, physical activity, social life, and mental health. The good news is that help is available, and effective.
Led by Experience: Aileen Maguire
Our pelvic health service is led by Aileen Maguire, Clinic Director and experienced physiotherapist. Aileen treats both male and female patients experiencing bladder, bowel, and pelvic floor dysfunction, offering expert care in a confidential setting.
Whether you're managing menopause related symptoms, recovering from childbirth, or dealing with post-surgical incontinence, you don’t have to navigate it alone.
Don’t Let Embarrassment Hold You Back
Urinary incontinence is not something to be ashamed of, and it is highly treatable. At Ballsbridge Physiotherapy Clinic, we’re here to support you. Contact us today to book a confidential pelvic health assessment and take your first step toward improved control, comfort, and confidence.
Aileen Maguire
Our Clinic Director leads the Pelvic Floor Rehabilitation Service. Treating both male and female patients with bladder and bowel incontinence, as well as pelvic pain.
Physiotherapy
We specialise in the treatment and prevention of injuries and conditions. If you are suffering with any health aliments that you feel we could help you with, get in touch today. We provide treatment for a wide age range from 9 years to 90 years old.