World Continence Week (WCW) is observed from June 16 to 22 every year, initiated by the World Federation for Incontinence and Pelvic Problems (WFIPP) and endorsed by the International Continence Society (ICS). This health event is intended to highlight the awareness of bladder and bowel issues, other chronic pelvic issues and debilitating problems. This event stresses the importance of reducing the stigma around incontinence and motivates people affected by this condition to seek prompt medical treatment and help.
Continence is the ability to regulate bladder and bowel functions, particularly the ability to store and release urine or stool at the right times. A loss of continence, known as incontinence, can develop due to numerous medical, physical, or neurological conditions, and it can significantly affect a person’s quality of life.
Also Read: Stress Urinary Incontinence: Learn About Treatment Options
The theme for World Continence Week (WCW) 2025 is Incontinence and Mental Health, which is often overlooked psychological toll of continence problems like shame, isolation, anxiety and reduced self-esteem. The event identifies continence care as more of a mental health wellness, and this year’s theme urges the need for open conversations and better support systems.
Bladder weakness alone (not considering faecal incontinence) affects 1 in 3 women and 1 in 10 men, which is more common than fever. Globally, more than 400 million people live with bladder issues, and most of them experience the stigma that prevents them from seeking proper medical help, which eventually impedes relationships, work-life balance and mental well-being. Addressing the issues of continence can improve overall health, lower healthcare costs, and foster a healthier community.
Causes of Incontinence
Pelvic floor muscle weakness is common in women after childbirth, menopause or pelvic surgeries. And in men, it may develop after prostate surgery. Weakened muscles fail to promote proper bladder or bowel functions.
Multiple sclerosis (MS), Parkinson’s disease, stroke, or spinal cord injuries can interfere with proper signalling between the brain and bladder/bowel. This results in overactivity or underactivity of muscles in these regions.
A urinary tract infection irritates the bladder muscles, resulting in sudden urges to urinate
Chronic constipation can exert pressure on the bladder and weaken the rectal muscle in the long run.
Certain medications like diuretics, sedatives, or muscle relaxants, when taken over a period, can affect bladder control.
Hormonal imbalance after menopause may thin the urethral lining, which may lead to leaks.
Overweight or obesity exerts pressure on the bladder and pelvic muscles, increasing leakage risk.
Over intake of caffeinated beverages or alcohol acts as a diuretic and bladder irritant, leading to urgency and leaks.
Also Read: What Is Pelvic Health? What Women Should Know And How To Maintain It?
5 Lifestyle Habits To Manage Continence
Modifying lifestyle habits can help control symptoms and improve overall bladder function and bowel health:
Pelvic Floor / Core Strengthening
Kegel exercises are known to improve pelvic function. Do pelvic floor muscles for 5-10 seconds, 10-15 reps, twice daily. Complement this with core workouts like bridges and gentle Pilates to promote internal control.
Mindful Fluid Intake/ Bladder Training
Smart hydration is key to maintaining bladder health. Aim to drink at least 1.5-2 litres of water daily. Avoid overdoing.
Bladder training is a vital part of improving bladder function, holding urination slowly from every hour to every 2-3 hours to increase capacity over time.
Dietary Modifications
A high fiber diet regularises bowel movements and prevents constipation, including a rich array of fresh fruits, vegetables and whole grains to boost fiber intake. In addition, refrain from having certain triggers like caffeine, alcohol, spicy or acidic foods, which can worsen the problem.
Manage Weight/ Movement
Maintain an ideal body weight within the BMI to reduce the excess pressure exerted on the pelvic floor muscles. Engage in brisk walking, swimming, cycling regularly for 150 minutes per week to strengthen muscles, tone them and promote digestion.
Ease Stress
Practice stress relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or gentle yoga, which can ease urgency.
Moreover, getting good quality sleep supports bladder and bowel cycles and improves mental resilience.
(This article is reviewed by Kalyani Krishna, Chief Content Editor)
Author Profile:
M Sowmya Binu:
With over 15 years of expertise and a Postgraduate degree in Nutrition, M Sowmya Binu is a seasoned professional in the field of nutrition. Specialising in tailoring personalised diet plans, she underscores the significance of a balanced approach to health, emphasising the integration of medication with dietary intake for holistic wellness. Passionate about equipping individuals with knowledge to make informed decisions, Sowmya adeptly develops insightful content encompassing a wide array of topics, including food, nutrition, supplements, and overall health.
References:
https://wfipp.org/event/world-continence-week-2025/
https://www.awarenessdays.com/awareness-days-calendar/world-continence-week-2025/
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8612696/
Lifestyle interventions for the treatment of urinary incontinence in adults
Mari Imamura 1,✉, Kate Williams 2, Mandy Wells 3, Catherine McGrother 4
