Incontinence

Incontinence is where a person is not able to hold onto (or control) their urine (pee) or faeces (poo), or both.

Incontinence is a complex and stigmatised issue, which can have significant impacts on quality of life, personal dignity and physical and mental health. Many people may live with it hidden for many years (either by personal choice or by families/communities), and may be reluctant to talk about it or seek help.

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How is incontinence related to WASH?

Incontinence is often considered a medical issue or solely for health – however this is not correct. Incontinence is complex, and needs cannot adequately be addressed by one sector alone. Without appropriate WASH, people living with incontinence are likely to not be able to live with dignity and can lead to much more serious consequences.

It is estimated that people with incontinence (and their carers) need five times as much soap and water as others. They may have significantly more washing and drying of clothes and bedsheets.
People who have incontinence need easily accessible latrines, bathing and laundry areas. This means short distances to facilities as well as minimal queues. Some people may be able to prevent leaking on their clothes or bedding, if they can access the toilet quickly, including those with disabilities or mobility issues.
Additional personal hygiene items to manage incontinence, such as disposable or reusable incontinence pads, waterproof mattress covers, extra clothes and underwear, extra soap and water containers, bed pans, potties, and toilet commode chairs.

Click on the image to read more about the key actions WASH and other sectors can take.

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Fact sheet: What is incontinence and what actions can we take?

Our fact sheet outlines in plain, non-medical language what incontinence is, key impacts and practical needs of people who experience incontinence. It is available in English, French and Spanish (soon Arabic).

Although primarily for water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) staff, this fact sheet can be useful for others and includes information on who is involved and key responsibilities of different sectors, as well as actions to take to support people with incontinence.