Incontinence in teenagers and young adults

If you are a teenager or young adult and you experience bladder or bowel leakage (incontinence), you are not alone. It is estimated as many as 7 out of 100 Australians aged 15-19 experience some form of incontinence. Leakages can happen during the day when you are awake (daytime wetting), or at night when you are asleep (bedwetting). Some teenagers experience other forms of leakage.

Leakage can be 


Daytime wetting

Daytime leakage from your bladder is a common condition. The most common reasons for this are pelvic floor muscle problems or an overactive bladder. 


Soiling

Soiling is any bowel (poo) leakage.

Leakage from your bowel may be caused by constipation, pelvic floor muscle problems or underlying medical conditions.


Bedwetting

Bedwetting is common in early childhood because the brain takes time to develop bladder control while asleep. Many people think it will stop on its own, but it does not always stop without help.  

If you leak when you are asleep, you may also have daytime bladder issues. You may

  • need to wee more often than others
  • wee without warning
  • leak as you run to the toilet. 

Help is available. If you have reached your teens and still experience bedwetting or daytime wetting, it is important to get checked out by your doctor or a specialist. 

Often leakage can be prevented, better managed, and even cured. Talk to your doctor or contact the National Continence Helpline on 1800 33 00 66 for free and confidential information, advice and support. 


Confidence

When you feel good about yourself, tackling leakage becomes a lot easier. A big part of self-confidence is the way you talk to yourself. If you’re in a bad headspace, it’s easy to think some pretty harsh things. But the great thing is, you can totally change that self-talk! Shifting your mindset can boost your self-esteem and help you feel more positive. Don’t forget to notice your achievements and take a moment to celebrate them, they really matter!

ReachOut has awesome tips on ways to build your confidence.


Going out with friends

Many teenagers enjoy hanging out with their friends and doing activities together. If you are nervous about going out, being prepared for leakage can help your confidence. Knowing you are ready for any accidents that may happen can help you to relax and enjoy your day. 

Things to take with you when you go out:

  • pads
  • change of underwear and pants
  • a bag to put any wet clothing in.

Things you can do to prepare for going out:

  • pack your bag with the supplies you might need
  • think about what you might say if someone asks you about:
    • extra trips to the bathroom
    • the supplies in your bag
  • have a support person. A support person is someone you can ask for help if you need it. 

If you do leak when you are out, try not to blame yourself. It is not your fault.

If you do experience leakage:

  • clean your genitals and surrounding areas
  • change your incontinence product
  • put dry clothes on.

This will help you to keep having fun with your friends.

Bullying

People do not always understand that incontinence or leakage is a medical condition. Some may use it as a chance to tease. This is bullying and it is not OK. You can get support if this happens. Talk to a trusted friend or adult.  Together you can find ways to deal with the situation. If you do not know who to talk to or you want more support, contact the National Continence Helpline. 

Here’s some advice for dealing with bullying situations.

Be prepared when you exercise

You may like to exercise, such as running or playing a sport. When exercising, it is important to always stay hydrated. Going to the toilet before starting your activity or exercise may help prevent leakage. If you have leakage during exercise, it may help to change the way you exercise. A continence nurse specialist can help you work out how to manage your leakages.

Dating and relationships

You may meet someone you like in a romantic way and want to spend time with them. Dating can be an exciting time, but you may also feel nervous about dating. If you have leakage, you may also worry about leaking when on a date. 

If you feel comfortable, it can be good to talk to the person you are dating about your experience. It may help you be more at ease, especially if your relationship is becoming more serious. Incontinence is a medical condition. It is reasonable to expect the people close to you to be understanding and supportive when you have a medical condition. Being open and honest gives people a chance to support you. Not all people will understand, but it helps to know who you can depend on. 

You can explore the ReachOut website for more great advice on healthy relationships, dating and intimacy.

Seek help

In many cases incontinence can be prevented, better managed and even cured. Talk to your doctor or contact the National Continence Helpline on 1800 33 00 66 for free and confidential advice and support.  

 

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Last Updated: Mon 06, Jan 2025
Last Reviewed: Wed 01, Apr 2020