‘Speak Up, Not Down!’ – Humber Health Partnership’s Super Nurse Pleads with Women to Break The Silence on Bladder Issues

A staggering number of women across East Yorkshire and Northern Lincolnshire might be quietly bearing the burden of incontinence or bladder weakness, according to Laura Rimmer, a clinical nurse specialist in urogynaecology at NHS Humber Health Partnership. Laura suggests that a whopping six in ten women could encounter some form of incontinence during their lifetime. Despite the widespread nature of the issue, many women are hesitant to seek help due to embarrassment. Laura, a dedicated professional serving major health institutions including Hull Royal Infirmary and Scunthorpe General Hospital, is urging women to step forward and seek medical aid. ‘Excessive embarrassment or worry is holding too many women back from asking for help. Taking that initial step can drastically improve their quality of life,’ she emphasises. Laura adds that help is often non-surgical and can be managed at home. Incontinence can stem from a range of causes including childbirth, menopause, diabetes, and neurological conditions like MS. It can also be linked to bowel issues such as constipation. Symptoms can range from a sudden urge to urinate to involuntary loss of urine during physical activities. A significant 43 per cent of women aged 50 to 64 and over half of women aged 65 to 80 are impacted by incontinence. Affected women often report feelings of isolation or depression and it can hinder their participation in activities like dancing, running or gym workouts. Laura sees about 25 women a week in her nurse-led service, offering treatments that include pelvic floor exercises and education; conservation management using specialised devices to prevent leaking, or intermittent self-catheterisation. Rimmer’s message to those suffering is clear: ‘There’s no need for embarrassment. It’s time to take charge of your own health.’