Most people with spinal cord injuries will experience bladder and bowel changes. With proper continence care, we will improve the quality of our life and build our confidence.
Continence is the ability to control bladder and bowel function. After a spinal cord injury, we will get some bladder and bowel changes. However, the type and symptoms will differ based on the damage’s characteristics, such as the level and completeness of the injury.
As a result, we need to find the methods, techniques and tools that best suit us. Although we may not regain the control we had before, we will have the confidence to make things easier with them. For example,
- An intermittent catheterization program (ICP) drains the bladder on a schedule (every four to six hours is typical).
- A reflex method triggered by stimulation, straining, or pressure usually works well for persons with high-level injuries.
- Persons with low-level injuries may require abdominal pressure or straining to assist bowel evacuation.
The NDIS for continence care
The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) has covered continence support. It fits participants five or older who regularly experience incontinence, day or night. We don’t provide consumables directly, but our NDIS Support Coordinators will assist you in making and implementing the NDIS plans and achieving your goals in this area.
In addition, we have more ideas that will help you how to develop a regular continence program. Please access the continence page for more information.
