Thrive and Shine Women's Wellness
Incontinence Physiotherapy in North Somerset
Specialist women’s health physiotherapy for bladder and bowel control
What is Incontinence?
Incontinence refers to the involuntary leakage of urine or stool, or difficulty controlling bladder or bowel function. It can affect women at different stages of life and may develop gradually or appear following pregnancy, childbirth, hormonal changes, or pelvic surgery.
Although incontinence is common, it is not something that has to be accepted as normal.
Types of Incontinence
There are several different types of incontinence, and some people experience more than one at the same time.
Stress Incontinence
Leakage that occurs with activities that increase pressure through the abdomen, such as coughing, sneezing, laughing, lifting, or exercise.
Urge Incontinence
A sudden, strong urge to pass urine that can be difficult to delay, sometimes resulting in leakage before reaching the toilet.
Mixed Incontinence
A combination of stress and urge symptoms, where both leakage with effort and urgency are present.
Bowel Incontinence
Difficulty controlling wind or bowel movements, which may include leakage, urgency, or difficulty wiping clean after opening the bowels.
Common Symptoms
Symptoms can vary depending on the type of incontinence and may also be linked to other bladder or bowel changes. You may experience one or several of the following:
Leaking urine with coughing, sneezing, laughing, lifting, or physical activity
A sudden, strong urge to pass urine that is difficult to delay, sometimes leading to rushing to the toilet
Passing urine more frequently than usual
Leaking wind or stool
Difficulty wiping clean after opening the bowels
Needing to wear pads or change clothing
Avoiding activities, exercise, or social situations due to fear of leakage
How physiotherapy can help with incontinence
Women’s health physiotherapy looks at bladder and bowel symptoms as part of the whole body, rather than focusing on the pelvic floor in isolation. Incontinence often develops due to a combination of factors, which may include pelvic floor muscle function, breathing patterns, posture, movement habits, hormonal changes, stress, sleep, and previous pregnancy, childbirth, or surgery.
Physiotherapy support may include:
Assessment of pelvic floor muscle strength, coordination, and control
Pelvic floor rehabilitation, including improving strength, coordination, or relaxation where muscles are overactive
Hands-on treatment to address soft tissue tension or restriction
Mobilisation of joints where stiffness or movement restrictions are contributing
Assessment and treatment of related musculoskeletal issues, such as back pain or hip pain
Guidance on bladder and bowel habits and practical strategies
Whole-body rehabilitation and strengthening
Movement-based exercise, which may include Pilates-based rehabilitation
Support with lifestyle factors such as stress management, sleep, and daily habits that can influence symptoms
Book an appointment
If you’re experiencing bladder or bowel control symptoms, a women’s health physiotherapy appointment provides the opportunity to discuss your concerns and explore appropriate next steps.
If you’re unsure whether this is the right appointment for you, you’re welcome to get in touch to discuss your options.
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Get in Touch
Thrive and Shine Women's Wellness Studio
Corner House
Woodborough Road
Winscombe
BS25 1AQ
07862620259
Thrive and Shine Women’s Wellness provides Physiotherapy, Pilates, menopause support, and remedial hypnosis / CONTROL method for women across Winscombe, Weston-super-Mare, Cheddar, Axbridge, and North Somerset.
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