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Healthy bladder and bowel information

Introduction

On this page you will find information on what a healthy bladder and bowel is and how you can improve your symptoms.

Please remember

Most bladder and bowel problems can be cured or greatly improved by simple treatments. By following the healthy bladder and bowel habits, you will be halfway to solving your problem.

Our focus is on continence not incontinence.

  • Will empty every three to four hours.
  • Can hold up to 400mls comfortably.
  • May wake you once at night.
  • Will empty completely each time you go to the toilet.
  • Will not leak.

Go to this page for a guide to urine colour.

  • Produces a soft formed stool that is easy to pass.
  • Can work up to three times a day.
  • Should work no less than three times a week.
  • Does not require you to strain.

  • Drink 1.5 to two litres a day
  • Avoid caffeine, alcohol, fizzy drinks and citrus flavoured juices and squash.
  • Never go to the toilet “just in case”
  • Maintain a healthy weight.
  • Perform pelvic floor exercises daily.

Go to this page for pelvic floor exercises for those assigned male at birth.

Go to this page for pelvic floor exercises for those assigned female at birth.

  • Maintain a good fluid intake.
  • Eat regular meals.
  • Aim to eat at least five portions of fruit and vegetables a day.
  • Keep as mobile as possible.

Your hospital nurse, district Nurse, GP or another health and social care professional can refer you to our service. Or, you can refer yourself by contacting us directly:

Email: SBU.ComunityHealthyBladderandBowelService@wales.nhs.uk

Tel: 01792 532424

Rydym yn croesawu gohebiaeth a galwadau ffôn yn y Gymraeg neu'r Saesneg. Atebir gohebiaeth Gymraeg yn y Gymraeg, ac ni fydd hyn yn arwain at oedi. Mae’r dudalen hon ar gael yn Gymraeg drwy bwyso’r botwm ar y dde ar frig y dudalen.

We welcome correspondence and telephone calls in Welsh or English. Welsh language correspondence will be replied to in Welsh, and this will not lead to a delay. This page is available in Welsh by clicking ‘Cymraeg’ at the top right of this page.