Types of continence health professional

If you’re experiencing bladder or bowel control changes, there are many health professionals who can support you. Each brings different expertise to help assess, manage and improve continence health and overall wellbeing.

You can search for local providers in the Continence Service Providers Directory or call the National Continence Helpline on 1800 33 00 66 for free, confidential advice. Open Monday to Friday from 8am to 8pm (Vic time).

Some continence health professionals work in the public health system and others in private clinics or hospitals. You can ask about any costs when you make your appointment.

Nursing professionals

Nurse continence specialist

A registered nurse with advanced training in continence care. They can:

• assess your condition
• work with you on a personalised management plan
• provide advice on products and potential funding support from federal and state governments
• advise on treatment options.

You can speak to a nurse continence specialist for free by calling the National Continence Helpline on 1800 33 00 66.

Prostate cancer nurse

Supports people with prostate cancer and related continence issues. Works closely with oncology (cancer care) and urology teams.

Stomal therapy nurse

Provides advice and support for people with stomas (eg colostomy) and may also offer continence advice. Often based in hospitals or surgical clinics.

Urology nurse

Works alongside urologists (doctors who specialise in problems of the urinary system) to support bladder and urinary tract care. Often found in hospitals or specialist clinics.

Allied health professionals

Pelvic health physiotherapist

A physiotherapist who has additional training in pelvic floor function and continence care. They can assess and diagnose bladder, bowel and sexual health and pelvic pain and create tailored rehabilitation programs to improve or cure symptoms. They can also teach people to do pelvic floor exercises properly. View our directory of pelvic health physiotherapists.

Physiotherapists with an interest in pelvic health

A physiotherapist who may not hold postgraduate qualifications but often work extensively in continence care and can support pelvic floor training and lifestyle changes.

Dietitian

Provides expert advice on nutrition to support bowel health, manage constipation or diarrhoea and improve overall wellbeing.

Occupational therapist

Helps people maintain independence and safety at home and in the community. They may recommend equipment or strategies to support toileting and mobility. Some may be able to give general continence advice.

Pharmacist

Can advise on medicines you might be taking that can affect your continence health. They can also suggest suitable continence products – most pharmacies stock pads and other aids. View continence products.

Psychologist

Supports mental health and wellbeing, including the social and emotional impacts of living with incontinence.

Indigenous health worker

Supports culturally safe care and communication for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

Medical professionals

General practitioner (GP)

Can assess your symptoms, provide advice. prescribe medicines and refer you to specialists (they can provide you with a referral letter). They know your health history and can help coordinate your care.

Medical specialists

Colorectal surgeon

Treats conditions of the lower bowel with a focus on surgical management.

Gastroenterologist

Investigates and treats problems with the bowel and digestive system (the system that processes the food you eat).

Geriatrician

Provides health care for older adults, usually over 65 years of age, including continence support.

Gynaecologist

Treats conditions affecting the female reproductive system such as pelvic organ prolapse or female urinary incontinence.

Paediatrician

Provides health care for children and teenagers, including bladder or bowel control issues.

Urogynaecologist

A medical specialist trained in both gyneacology and urology. They specialise in female pelvic health, including prolapse and urinary incontinence.

Urologist

Treats bladder, kidney and urinary tract issues; also supports men’s sexual health.

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