Incontinence describes any accidental or involuntary loss of urine from the bladder (urinary incontinence) or bowel matter or wind from the bowel (faecal or bowel incontinence).
Incontinence can range from ‘just a small leak’ to complete loss of bladder or bowel control. It is very common, with over 6 million Australians reporting bladder or bowel control problems. There are likely many more who do not seek help. Although common, incontinence is not a normal part of aging. There are many different causes of incontinence hence a thorough assessment is required. There are many different options to treat and manage incontinence and in some cases, it can be cured.
The Eastern Health Continence Clinic consists of medical, nursing and physiotherapy specialists.
Working together with you, we provide specialist assessment and management of bladder, bowel or pelvic floor concerns;
Your treatment may include:
- A continence management plan which is goal-oriented and time-limited
- Education and support for clients and carers
- Assistance with selection of continence products and funding applications, where eligible
Appropriate symptoms indicating need for referral may include:
- Frequency or urgency (having to rush) to use the bladder or bowels
- Difficulty making it to the toilet in time to use the bladder or bowels
- Needing to go to the toilet frequently overnight
- Leakage of urine with coughing, sneezing, heavy lifting or exercise
- Constipation or difficulty emptying the bowels
- Difficulties emptying the bladder
- Dropping down of the pelvic organs – pelvic organ prolapse
- Urinary leakage after prostate surgery
Over 16 years of age and resides in catchment area. NDIS clients may access our clinic for specialist continence medical assessment, however, should seek Nursing and Physiotherapy services via registered NDIS providers in the community.
Under 16 years of age
GP referral is preferred
There is a cost for our service, which we will explain to you when we call to discuss your treatment plan.
We understand that covering the cost of health can be hard, even if you received the service in a public hospital. If you are worried that you may not be able to pay, please contact Patient Revenue Services to talk through your situation.
Multi-disciplinary care:
- The team comprises a doctor (geriatrician), nurse and physiotherapist, all with specialist training in continence
- People who attend often require the services of more than one team member
Eastern Heath Peter James
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Address |
Mahoneys Road Burwood East VIC 3151 (Enter from Mahoneys Road.) |
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Contact |
Clinic: Ph: (03) 9881 1843
Ph: (03) 9881 1100 Fax: (03) 9881 1102 |
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Hours |
9:00am – 4:30pm Monday – Friday |
Eastern Health Yarra Ranges
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Address |
25 Market Street Lilydale VIC 3140 |
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Contact : |
Clinic: Ph: (03) 9091 8888 Referrals: Ph: (03) 9881 1100 Fax: (03) 9881 1102 |
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Hours |
8:30am – 4:30pm Monday |
Frequently Asked Questions
A continence nurse can visit you at home in special circumstances. If you need to see a doctor or physiotherapist you will need to come in to the clinic.
An assessment is specifically tailored for your needs and includes information gathering such as medications, bladder and bowel habits, tests and may involve a physical examination to help identify and address your problem.
Yes, we are very welcoming of someone to accompany you to the appointment
We may not be able to see you urgently. Options for urgent care include seeing your GP, considering private health care (particularly for pelvic floor physio), attending Emergency Department if the issue poses immediate risk to your health.
This will be discussed with the clinician if required.
Where possible we will accommodate preference however this cannot be guaranteed.
Allow 90 minutes for the first appointment.
Interpreters are available on request. Please discuss with the admin assistant on booking appointment.