Ready to get help? We have a list of Continence Service Providers across Aotearoa, which you can search by region.
If you are unsure who to seek help from, you can call us on 0800 650 659, or use the guide below of some of the people and organisations who work in continence care:
If you are caring for someone and need support, Carers NZ can help. They offer information, advice, learning and support for New Zealanders who care for family members and whānau who are ill, frail, injured, or have a health condition or disability. Visit the Carers NZ website or call the Carers NZ Helpline on 0800 777 797.
Continence NZ
Continence NZ runs a free Continence Helpline on 0800 650 659. Call us, we love to help!
Work and Income New Zealand
If you need funding for continence products, you may qualify for the Disability Allowance.
Colorectal Surgeons
These surgical specialists treat people with diseases in the lower gastrointestinal tract. This includes the colon, rectum and anus. Colorectal conditions that may need surgery to manage include cancers and polyps, pelvic organ prolapse and inflammatory bowel diseases.
Continence nurses
Continence nurses are registered nurses with extensive training in continence care. They can provide a full continence assessment of your bowel and bladder issues and work with you to develop a management plan to suit your needs. They will liaise with other health professionals to ensure you get all the support you need. To access a continence nurse, get a referral from your GP. The continence nurse may visit you at home or see you in a continence clinic.
Dieticians
Dietitians help people improve their health and wellbeing by offering advice on what to eat and drink. A good diet is important for people with continence issues. You can find a dietician here.
Gastroenterologists
Gastroenterologists are experts in diseases of the digestive system. You would see a gastroenterologist if you have any symptoms of a digestive health disorder.
GPs
Your GP or General Practitioner is the first port of call when you have a health issue. They know all about a range of health conditions. You can chat to them about any concerns you have about your bladder, bowel or pelvic health. They can refer you on to see another health professional, such as a continence nurse or pelvic health physiotherapist. If you enrol with a GP, the cost of visiting them is subsidised so you pay less each time you see your doctor. You can check the list of GP clinics and their fees.
Midwives
Midwives are registered health professionals who look after you during pregnancy, labour and birth, and the first six weeks after birth. You can chat with them if you have any concerns about your bladder, bowel or pelvic health during or just after your pregnancy. They can support you and refer you on to other health professionals. Find a midwife at this link.
Nurses
Nurses work with people who are sick or injured, in hospitals, clinics, rest homes and the community. They can be enrolled nurses, registered nurses, or nurse practitioners. Practice nurses work with GPs in their clinics. Nurses can specialise in particular areas, such as prostate cancer care or urology.
Obstetrician-gynaecologists
Obstetricians are doctors who specialise in caring for you during pregnancy, childbirth and the recovery period afterwards. You can be referred to see a
Toilet Card
Finding a toilet when out and about can be a challenge for people with bladder or bowel problems. It could even discourage some people from going out altogether. Our toilet card clearly states that the holder has a medical condition and needs to use a toilet quickly. Most places you visit will be willing to help you. Request a toilet card.
Not sure where to start? Call our Continence NZ Helpline on 0800 650 659 and we can suggest the best place to go for further support. You can also check our Support & Info section or our Education section for information and resources.
