Incontinence has been defined as the involuntary or inappropriate passing of urine and/or faeces and affects men, women and children. It has many adverse side effects such as social isolation, loneliness and sadness, depression, embarrassment that affects their activities of daily living, stigmatisation, effects on sexual relationships and disturbed sleep. There are several practical inconveniences associated with incontinence including frequent changes of clothes and bed linen and the need to bathe more often. These issues may have a major impact on the person’s quality of life.

However, the social stigma surrounding incontinence may prevent the individual from speaking to friends or family or actively seeking help from a healthcare professional. Many people are unaware of the treatments that could be offered to treat or best manage this distressing problem.