Last updated: 10 October 2022

Bladder and bowel problems

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Bladder problems

More than 75 in every 100 people with MS experience bladder problems at some time, but many people feel too embarrassed to talk about them. Here we discuss the different bladder symptoms that can happen in MS, the support available from health professionals and how these symptoms can be successfully treated.

Bladder problems

Bladder incontinence

Some people with multiple sclerosis experience bladder accidents (urinary incontinence), where bladder control is lost and urine leaks out. Treatment options can include pelvic floor exercises, medication, lifestyle changes and using a catheter.

Catheters

A urinary catheter is a thin, flexible tube used to drain urine from the bladder. Urine is usually collected in a drainage bag, or drained directly into a toilet.

Urinary tract infections (UTIs)

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are a common bladder problem in multiple sclerosis. They are also known as water infections or cystitis. UTIs can cause you to feel a frequent urge to urinate and make urinating painful. Treatment is with a course of appropriate antibiotics.

Waves

Bowel problems

Around half of all people with MS experience bowel problems at some time and these symptoms can be distressing and difficult to talk about. Here we discuss how bowel symptoms, such as constipation and incontinence, can be managed, why they happen in MS and the health professionals that can support you.

Bowel problems

Constipation

If you're finding it hard to poo and not pooing as often as usual, you may be experiencing constipation. This is a common bowel symptom that can affect people with multiple sclerosis. Treatment options include lifestyle and dietary changes, laxatives, rectal stimulants and transanal irrigation.

Bowel incontinence

Some people with multiple sclerosis experience bowel accidents (incontinence). Treatment options include establishing a bowel management routine, strengthening your pelvic floor, retraining your bowel muscles, irrigation of the bowel and surgical options.

Continence services

Continence services are specialist nurse teams that can help you with bladder and bowel symptoms. They can advise on treatment options such as medication, pelvic floor exercises and dietary changes, as well as products such as catheters and continence pads.

Related content

9 March 2018

Talking toilet troubles in MS

In this episode we want to banish toilet taboos! Tom from our Information Team explains a little bit about the science behind why these symptoms occur in MS; Helena, who lives with MS, shares her advice on how best to deal with these kinds of problems in the workplace, and we put some of your questions about bowel and bladder symptoms to MS specialist nurse Noreen Barker.

Questions about MS?

Call our free helpline on 0800 032 38 39 for practical information you can trust. Or email ask@mstrust.org.uk. We're here weekdays from 10am to 4pm, except bank holidays.

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