Thu 09, Mar 2023 , Bridge Magazine
Welcome to the Autumn edition of Bridge. In this issue we focus on inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), clarifying the differences between them and acknowledging that loss of bowel continence can be experienced by many people with these conditions.
Our coverage comprises a couple of lived experience stories including Rhiannon’s journey with Crohn’s disease and Emily’s challenges and achievements with self-managing IBS. Our Helpline Q&A provides some important guidelines on management and treatment options and the importance of a continence assessment for those who have concerns.
Since the launch of our BINS4Blokes campaign in June 2021, it has been wonderful to see the installation of more incontinence product disposal bins in male public toilets Australia wide. Recently, the City of Melbourne became the first Australian capital city to trial incontinence product disposal bins in male and all-gendered toilets in six council facilities, including libraries and recreation centres. This is a positive step forward and we hope to see many more councils join the campaign, which helps men in the community to get out and about with confidence knowing there is somewhere to dispose of their incontinence products.
We would like to acknowledge all our supporters for providing incontinence product disposal bins for men in their toilet facilities. Individuals can make a world of difference by aapproaching your local council to get incontinence product disposal bins in the public toilets in your community area. For more information visit bins4blokes.org.au
Please share this edition of Bridge with everyone, especially those with bowel control concerns. Anyone looking for more advice and information about bladder, bowel and pelvic health can also phone the National Continence Helpline on 1800 33 00 66 or visit our website continence.org.au
Rowan Cockerell
CEO, Continence Foundation of Australia