If you’re experiencing ongoing bladder or bowel issues, it’s important to speak to a healthcare professional. 

Leaks can affect confidence, daily activities, and overall well-being. However, with the right advice, they can often be managed effectively, and sometimes improved or resolved.

You don’t need to manage this alone. Help is available, and you can access it through your GP or an NHS continence clinic.

Preparing for your appointment

Before you speak to a health professional, it can help to keep a short diary for a week. Note:

• When leaks occur and how often
   
• How they affect your day-to-day activities
   
• Any changes in your diet, medication, or routine before the symptoms began
   

This can help your GP or continence adviser identify possible causes and recommend the most suitable treatment.

Speaking to your GP

Your GP can:

• Carry out an examination and arrange tests to identify the cause
   
• Suggest treatment, which might include diet changes, pelvic floor exercises, or bladder retraining
   
• Prescribe medicines or continence products if needed
   
• Refer you to a hospital specialist or continence adviser for further support
   

NHS continence clinics

You can also go directly to an NHS continence clinic without a GP referral. These clinics are staffed by specialist nurses (continence advisers) and physiotherapists who:

• Assess your symptoms and discuss treatment options
   
• Support you with bladder retraining and pelvic floor exercises
   
• Provide continence pads and other products if required
   

To find your local clinic, contact:

• NHS 111 (call or visit 111.nhs.uk)
   
• Your local NHS Trust’s Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS)