HSE highlights importance of early intervention during World Continence Week

World Continence Week: Mayo Service Encourages People to Seek Help for Bladder and Bowel Problems

As part of World Continence Week (15 to 21 June), the HSE Mayo Integrated Specialist Continence Care Service (ISCCS) is encouraging anyone experiencing bladder or bowel symptoms to seek support early and access specialist services available within their local community.

Bladder and bowel problems are common, affecting people of all ages and genders, yet many individuals delay seeking help due to embarrassment, stigma, or the belief that symptoms are a normal part of ageing. In reality, many continence issues can be significantly improved or successfully managed with appropriate assessment and treatment.

Symptoms may include urinary leakage, urgency, frequent urination, difficulties emptying the bladder, bowel leakage, constipation, bedwetting or other bladder and bowel concerns. Early intervention can improve quality of life, reduce symptoms and help people maintain independence and participation in everyday activities.

The HSE Mayo Integrated Specialist Continence Care Service delivers an innovative community-based model of care, bringing specialist continence assessment and treatment closer to home. The service is led by specialist continence nurses and pelvic health physiotherapists working collaboratively with General Practitioners, hospital teams, and community healthcare services to provide timely access to expert care.

Since its introduction, the service has transformed access to specialist continence care across Mayo, reducing waiting times and enabling many patients to receive assessment and treatment within their local community, often avoiding the need for hospital-based appointments.

Siobhan Gallagher, Clinical Specialist Physiotherapist with the  Mayo Integrated Specialist Continence Care Service, said: "World Continence Week provides an important opportunity to raise awareness of bladder and bowel health and to remind people that help is available. Too often, individuals live with symptoms for years before seeking support. Continence problems are common, but they are not something that people simply have to accept. Early assessment and intervention can make a significant difference to quality of life, confidence, and overall wellbeing."

Fidelma Mullarkey, Continence Nurse adviser with the Mayo Integrated Specialist Continence Care Service, added: "One of the biggest barriers to treatment remains the stigma associated with bladder and bowel problems. We want people to know that these conditions are extremely common and that effective support is available. Our aim is to provide accessible, person-centred care that helps people manage their symptoms and improve their day-to-day lives."

The Mayo Integrated Specialist Continence Care Service is encouraging anyone concerned about bladder or bowel symptoms to discuss their concerns with their GP and seek advice on appropriate referral pathways.