Where do I go for help?

If you've got a bladder or bowel problem, it can be difficult to know where to find the right information and who can help you. This section explains which health professionals you're likely to come into contact with, what to expect from appointments, and the different treatment options you might be given.

Information on bowel and bladder problems

Find out about different types of incontinence that teenagers struggle with and why bowel and bladder accidents can happen. Read more

Who can help me?

Find out about the different organisations and people who can help you with your bladder or bowel problem. Read more

Appointments & treatment

Here's what to expect when you go to see a doctor or nurse about a continence problem, plus tips for a good appointment. Read more

What if my doctor says there's nothing wrong?

Find out what you can do if your doctor or nurse doesn't accept that you have a bowel or bladder condition. Read more

Accessibility

Our policy on how we're making our website as accessible as possible. Read more

Latest

Toilet anxiety

Why some children find the bathroom a frightening place to be and how to them overcome their fears.
Why do some children withhold?

There can be lots of different reasons why a child will stop themselves from weeing or pooing. It could be just one or a combination of issues.
Signs of withholding

There are lots of different clues that show a child is trying to avoid weeing or pooing. Here's a list of the most common tell tale signs to look out for.
Children who withhold wee

Why do some children try to avoid emptying their bladder and can it do any harm?

Guides to children's bowel and bladder problems

Resources and leaflets to help with potty training, daytime wetting, bedwetting and bowel problems.
Bowel problems: FAQs

How often should children poo? Why is my child soiling? Get answers to commonly asked questions about children's poo problems.
A Parent's Guide to Disimpaction

If your child has been constipated for more than a few days your doctor or nurse may recommend a disimpaction regime. This means giving laxatives in sufficiently large quantities to ‘clear out’ all the accumulated poo. Read our Parent's Guide to Disimpaction.
Top 10 potty training tips

Top 10 potty training tips from the experts in toileting. Use these tips to successfully teach your child to use the potty.
Children who will only poo in a nappy and other toilet avoiders

Insisting on wearing a nappy to poo is normal for kids who are potty training, but some would happily poo in a nappy for years. Break the habit with these tips.
Treating bedwetting

Watch our bedwetting animation and find out how to treat and manage this common childhood condition.
How fast are your bowels? Take the sweetcorn test to find out!

A portion of sweetcorn and a clock is all you need to discover how long it takes for food to travel from your mouth to the toilet.
Helpline support

Call ERIC's helpline on freephone: 0808 169 9949
When to start potty training

To start potty training, your child needs to be physically ready and able to follow instructions. There are also things you can do to prepare them to learn.
What causes bedwetting?

There are three main reasons why children and young people struggle with bedwetting. Find out more about the underlying causes.

Your chance to change and improve continence services

An invitation for anybody caring for a young person experiencing a wee or poo difficulty to share their experience and opinions. Help drive change! Read more

Helping older children and teenagers overcome bedwetting

Nine tips for anyone supporting young people to manage their bedwetting and stay motivated. Read more