RUHX are proud to be launching our new Women’s Health campaign. Urinary incontinence is a daily battle. It’s a condition that affects 1 in 4 women in the UK, often beginning after childbirth or as they get older. And despite the widespread prevalence of this condition, it’s often misunderstood and stigmatised, leaving countless women to suffer alone, unaware that effective treatments exist.
But it doesn’t have to be this way. Urodynamic testing is the key investigation when we are diagnosing types of urinary leakage. So RUHX are helping to put a new urodynamics system within the heart of our urogynaecology team to make a step-change improvement in the way we can offer this service to the women in our care.
To understand a little more about this challenge that many women face, we’re sharing Jen’s story……………
Eight years ago, following a hysterectomy, Jen found her life taking an unexpected turn. Although she had been informed that urinary incontinence could be a possible side effect of her operation, she never imagined how profoundly it would impact her daily life. What started as a minor inconvenience soon became a challenge she has had to navigate every single day.
Early symptoms and when to seek medical help
Jen first noticed changes in her bladder control post-surgery. She experienced both stress incontinence, leading to leakage when she coughed, sneezed, or exercised, and urge incontinence, which meant a frequent and urgent need to urinate, often leaking urine. Initially, she brushed it off, hoping things would settle. But as time passed, it became clear that this wasn’t something that would simply go away. Determined to find answers, after a year of managing symptoms Jen visited her GP, who referred her to a specialist. Over several years, she underwent multiple assessments, including a urodynamic study, which confirmed her diagnosis. She tried pelvic floor physiotherapy several times, both through the NHS and privately, and experimented with medications, some of which have been helpful.
“It is complex to deal with, so it must be complex to diagnose. And in that complexity, it would seem to me that a piece of machinery that can really help to pinpoint things would be immensely important, because it either eliminates that or it says – yes, there’s an issue here and now we can progress with treatment.”
Daily challenges and emotional impact
Jen describes her condition as being ‘totally unpredictable’ and this has changed how she lives her life. Activities she once loved, like long walks, fitness classes and social outings, now require careful planning. She mentally maps out restroom locations before going out. Some days are worse than others. A trip to the shops might go smoothly one day, but the next, she could find herself in an embarrassing situation, forcing her to rush home to avoid an accident. The unpredictability causes her anxiety. She misses the freedom of spontaneity and has often had to change her plans out of fear of not being in control of her bladder. Beyond the physical aspect, incontinence has affected Jen’s confidence to take on new challenges. She now hesitates before committing to activities that take her away from home for too long. Even the pace at which she walks is considered to avoid triggering leaks.
The social stigma and hidden costs
Jen has realised that despite how common bladder issues are – affecting approximately 1 in 4 women – they remain a taboo topic. Conditions like breast and prostate cancer have gained awareness over time, but incontinence remains something people shy away from discussing. This silence fosters isolation and prevents many from seeking the help they need, even though 80% of urinary incontinence cases are treatable. The financial impact can be another hidden burden. Over the years, Jen has spent a considerable amount on incontinence products, specialised underwear, supplements, and private therapy. She is fortunate enough to manage these costs, but she worries about those who can’t. How many women are quietly suffering, unable to afford the products and treatments that could help them live more comfortably?
The bigger picture
Jen wants people to understand that while incontinence isn’t life-threatening, it is life-limiting. It chips away at independence, confidence, and mental wellbeing. It discourages physical activity and social interactions, and can isolate women, potentially leading to other health concerns like reduced levels of fitness and even depression.
“It becomes normalised, you learn to cope, it’s not life threatening, but its life-limiting. It doesn’t directly limit your lifespan, but it limits the quality of your life – and by limiting quality of your life it can have an effect on other possible health issues like your general fitness, or your emotional stability and mental health. I would definitely encourage others experiencing urinary problems to seek medical help sooner rather than later. Help is out there – and I have always found the medical and physio staff to be very respectful and helpful.”
Despite everything, Jen remains hopeful. She is awaiting further tests and she is determined to break the silence surrounding bladder health and to push for better access to diagnostic tools such as a Urodynamics Machine, resulting in timely, well-informed treatment. By sharing her story, she hopes to empower others who are struggling, reminding them that they are not alone – and that they deserve support, dignity, and solutions that work.
To find out more and support our campaign to purchase a new Urodynamics Machine and help tackle this challenge, click here