In celebration of World Continence Week 2026, the HSE Integrated Specialised Continence Care team in Galway will have an information stand in the Galway Shopping Centre (outside Tesco ) today, Thursday, June 18, from 12:00 noon to 2pm.
With urinary incontinence affecting one in three women and one in 10 men, the need for early intervention and community-based support is greater than ever. The continence care service in the community is a new model of care to deliver services through local primary care centres and hospitals.
The patient pathway for adults begins with an initial assessment by a GP or a urologist. If suitable, patients are referred to a one-stop community clinic currently staffed by physiotherapists and nurses specialising in continence care.
The team encourages anyone experiencing symptoms of incontinence, such as frequent urination, urgency, stress incontinence, night-time urination or difficulty emptying the bladder, to speak with their GP.
“Bladder and bowel difficulties in childhood, eg, constipation, day and night time wetting, are more common than many people realise," said Bernie Hogan, clinical nurse manager II/continence advisor. "Many parents and children delay seeking help due to embarrassment, stigma or uncertainty about where to access support. Early intervention is vital. Families are encouraged to request a referral through any healthcare professional already involved in their child’s care.”
Edel Egan, clinical specialist physiotherapist, added: “Come along on Thursday and speak with the team. We are happy to listen and give you the opportunity to talk about very sensitive issues that may be difficult to talk about. We can give confidential advice, practical information, guidance and support on how to maintain good bladder health. Nobody should have to deal with incontinence alone.”
