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

Step 1 - Preparing for potty training

Spending time preparing your child in advance of taking their nappy away is the best way to help them move on to the next step. We explain why and how in this first step...
ERIC Conference workshops announced

Read more about the expert-led workshops taking place at our hybrid conference in October.
Step 2 - Potty training practice

Teaching your child how to use a potty and feel comfortable around wee and poo is a great way to introduce the next step. You can help them to learn these new skills through play.
Step 3 - Perfecting potty training skills

You're ready to stop using nappies once and for all! Find out how to manage accidents, outings and naptimes plus how to motivate and reward your child.

Resources about children's bowel & bladder problems

Factsheets, charts & templates to help you manage potty training and bowel & bladder 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.
Bowel problems: FAQs

How often should children poo? Why is my child soiling? Get answers to commonly asked questions about children's poo problems.
Potty training tips

Make sure your child is having plenty to drink throughout the day and check out their poo. Constipation makes potty training really tricky!
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.
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.
Advice for children with constipation

How to spot the signs of constipation in children and how it should be treated and managed.
Treating bedwetting

Discover how to treat and manage this common childhood condition.
Parents and carers
What causes bedwetting?

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