What we do
The Continence Service provides advice and education for people of all ages across Bass Coast region who suffer from bladder and/or bowel control issues, along with sexual dysfunction and pelvic floor health.
Continence problems are often a symptom of another health problem and can almost always be treated, better managed or cured. The first step is to speak to one of our local health professionals.
Continence problems might include:
- Rushing to the toilet
- Going to the toilet often
- Leaking or soiling yourself
- Going to the toilet a lot at night
- Leaking when you cough, sneeze, exercise or during sexual intercourse
- Constipation
- Loose bowels
- Difficulty going to the toilet
- Pelvic prolapse
- Having pelvic pain
- Needing advice about continence aids or coping with a bladder or bowel problem
- Needing advice if you care for someone with a bladder or bowel problem
What we offer
We have a team of experienced Clinical Nurse Consultants and a Nurse Practitioner who, following assessment, will develop a management plan in conjunction with you and your carer (if required), and provide education for the problems identified.
We can offer information about appropriate aids and access to funding schemes if patients are eligible. Our service also caters for children, providing advice and management of bed-wetting, day wetting, soiling, and toilet training difficulties.
At the Phillip Island Community Hospital our Nurse Practitioner leads the urodynamics service - a bladder functional test often requested by a specialist before urological or gynaecological surgery.
Clinicians involved in a multi-disciplinary approach to Continence care include Clinical Nurse Consultants, a Nurse Practitioner, a Pelvic Floor Rehabilitation Physiotherapist, a Dietitian, a Medical Specialist and allied health professionals.
Who we care for
Clients who have Urinary Catheters in place or are required to self-catheterise may access the Continence Service.
Often a team based approach is required for bladder/bowel incontinence followed by recent hospitalisation, gynaecological surgery, prostate surgery, pregnancy or a recent change in health status. The primary focus of the clinic is on rehabilitation and the program is usually conducted over 12 weeks.