This Men’s Health Week (Mon 9–Sun 15 June), Continence Health Australia is calling on men in Australia to break the silence around bladder, bowel, and sexual health issues that affect many but are rarely discussed.

Incontinence affects 2.4 million men in Australia, yet many are unable speak out and seek help.

During Men’s Health Week, Continence Health Australia is urging men to talk about pelvic health starting with two simple and overlooked conversations, how to poo properly and how to talk about sexual function with your GP.

By encouraging men to speak up, get support, and take action early they can improve their quality of life.

During the recent Continence Health Australia National Conference on Incontinence, guest speaker Dr Sama Balasubramanian, Sexual Health Physician at Sydney Men’s Health talked about sexual health as a fundamental part of men’s wellbeing but still one of the least talked about topics.

His presentation encouraged men to take control of their sexual health particularly with regards to those living with incontinence or those who have suffered health issues, especially with prostate cancer and the resulting treatment.

He reported that 80% of men who have undergone a radical prostatectomy experience sexual dysfunction. This, he believes arises from factors including neurological damage from surgery, medication and psychological impacts.

Physiotherapist,Allison Bryant also talked at the National Conference on Incontinence about the correct way to poo. This often under discussed subject can make a surprising difference. As we age, the pelvic floor muscles which help control the bladder and bowel naturally weaken.

Straining while pooing, or sitting in the wrong position, can put extra pressure on these muscles and worsen leakage or urgency. By simply adjusting your posture, feet on a small stool, knees above hips, leaning forward with a straight back you can help your bowel empty more easily and reduce the strain on your pelvic floor.

It’s a simple habit that can ease constipation, improve control, and support better continence as you age.

Formen living with incontinence, using the correct posture when pooing cansignificantly reduce strain on the pelvic floor, the group of muscles thatsupports bladder and bowel control.

Adopting the right position (knees above hips, leaning forward, relaxed belly) helps the bowel empty more effectively and with less effort. This reduces pressure on the pelvic floor, supports better control, and can even improve bladder function.

It'sa small change that can make a big difference in managing incontinence andprotecting long-term pelvic health.

ContinenceHealth Australia is encouraging men to speak with their GP or a healthcare professional if they’re experiencing bladder, bowel, or sexual health issues, no matter their age.

Jim Cooper, CEO, Continence Health Australia said: “Incontinence is one of the last great taboos in men’s health, but it shouldn’t be. We want to remind everyman that incontinence is not a weakness and help is available. It affects 2.4million men in Australia, yet far too many are suffering in silence.

“This Men’s Health Week, we want to send a clear message: incontinence is common, it’s manageable, and seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Whether it’s understanding how to protect your pelvic floor or feeling confident to talk about changes in sexual function, getting the right support can be life changing and is just a telephone call away. Our free and confidential NationalContinence Helpline is available and is staffed by nurse continence specialists.”

Continence Health Australia works to ensure healthcare providers, policymakers, and the public prioritise incontinence as a significant health issue. The organisation is committed to raising awareness, normalising the conversation, and advocating for better diagnostic and treatment options for people of all ages in Australians.

Consumers and health professionals can contact the National ContinenceHelpline on 1800 33 00 66 for free, confidential support and advice.

The Helpline is available Monday to Friday from 8am to 8pm AEST and is staffed by nurse continence specialists offering expert information, guidance on managing symptoms, referrals to local services, and connections to support networks.

‍