Angelique Wauer, a young woman in her early 20s, never imagined that her life would be disrupted by incontinence—a condition she associated with older age or post-childbirth. Her journey to manage this unexpected health challenge has led her to undergo surgery for a nerve-stimulation device implant, highlighting a broader issue that affects millions yet remains shrouded in stigma.
Incontinence, often perceived as a condition affecting only the elderly or postpartum women, can impact anyone, regardless of age or gender. “The misconception of incontinence only happening to older people or women after childbirth means younger people often fall through the cracks,” Ms. Wauer shared in an interview. “It completely changed how I moved through the world in terms of social life, intimacy, travel, work.”
Understanding the Impact
For Ms. Wauer, incontinence was more than just a physical issue; it was a challenge that affected every aspect of her life. At 22, she was diagnosed with a neurologically driven bladder condition that caused severe urinary retention. “My bladder didn’t signal to my brain that I needed to go to the toilet, so I was constantly setting alarms to remind myself,” she explained. “Leaving the house wasn’t as simple as grabbing my keys … I needed to carry enough catheters, mentally plan my day around bathroom access and factor in the anxiety of ‘what if I run out?’.”
Her experience is not unique. Incontinence affects over five million Australians, with women being twice as likely as men to suffer from the condition. Despite its prevalence, many do not seek help due to the stigma and shame associated with it.
The Role of Medical Intervention
In June, Ms. Wauer underwent a significant medical procedure to implant a nerve-stimulation device, performed by Dr. Tanaka Dune, a leading urogynaecologist in South Australia. Dr. Dune is the only specialist of her kind working in the public health system in the region, and she is a vocal advocate for changing the narrative around incontinence.
“It’s really important to recognise that incontinence and pelvic floor dysfunction is not just a postpartum or post-menopausal woman’s issue, it is an important public health and cost issue,” Dr. Dune stated. “If you are incontinent, it disrupts your activities in daily living and quality of life and it can also contribute to mental health issues and you may not know who to get help from.”
Dr. Dune emphasizes the need for open discussions about incontinence, likening it to other common health issues. “Speaking openly is about challenging the stigma because if we can say ‘diabetes’ or ‘asthma’ without judgement, then we should be able to say ‘incontinence’ the same way,” she said.
Breaking the Silence
The stigma surrounding incontinence often prevents individuals from seeking the help they need. This silence can lead to untreated conditions that affect both physical and mental health. Ms. Wauer’s story is a testament to the importance of breaking this silence and advocating for better understanding and support for those affected.
According to experts, the cost of incontinence products and limited government support further complicate the issue. “People don’t realise how expensive incontinence products are and how limited government support can be,” Ms. Wauer noted, underscoring the financial burden that accompanies the condition.
Looking Ahead
The move to openly discuss incontinence is gaining momentum, with healthcare professionals and patients alike advocating for change. As awareness grows, so does the potential for improved support systems and resources for those affected.
For Ms. Wauer, the journey continues as she navigates life with her condition. Her story serves as a powerful reminder of the need for compassion, understanding, and action in addressing incontinence as a public health issue. “No one should feel ashamed of a condition that is fundamentally just a part of their health,” Dr. Dune concluded.
As society progresses towards more inclusive conversations about health, the hope is that incontinence will be viewed with the same openness and support as other common conditions, allowing individuals like Ms. Wauer to live their lives with dignity and confidence.
