When someone has a stroke, it means the blood supply to a part of the brain has been cut off. That interruption can impact everything from speech to memory to mobility — and sometimes, bladder and bowel control too.

Different strokes affect different parts of the brain, but if the area that controls the pelvic floor muscles, bladder, or bowel is impacted, leaks can follow.

This can look like:

• The brain not being able to send clear signals to the bladder or bowel
  
  
• Pelvic muscles becoming weaker or harder to control
  
  
• Difficulty recognising the urge to go to the bathroom
  
  
• Memory loss or confusion, making it harder to follow a toileting routine
  
  

It’s frustrating, but it doesn't mean you're failing. And it’s not permanent for everyone.

Stroke recovery is already a lot. When incontinence gets added to the mix, it can feel like your independence is slipping through your fingers.

But here’s the truth: your comfort, dignity, and confidence are still within reach. And there are tools and support systems to help you feel more in control again.

This isn’t about pretending things are easy. It’s about recognising what’s possible, and taking it step by step.

After a stroke, pelvic floor muscles can become weak, and maybe not function how they used to. That’s where pelvic floor therapy comes in.

A pelvic physio can help with:

• Exercises to strengthen the muscles around your bladder and bowel
  
  
• Tracking your progress using recommended tools
  
  
• Personalised routines to support recovery and reduce leaks
  
  

Even though there are pelvic floor exercises you can do at home, it's always a good idea to check in with your doctor or a pelvic physio before getting started. Recovery looks different for everyone, and professional support makes a huge difference.

What you eat and drink can impact your bladder and bowel more than you might realise. Some food and drinks are known to irritate the bladder and trigger leaks. Knowing how your body responds to different ingredients is key to finding more comfort and control — without adding stress to mealtimes.

Food and drinks to avoid include:

• Coffee (as caffeine stimulates the bladder)
• Soft drinks and fizzy water
• Alcohol
• Citrus fruits, including oranges, lemons and limes
• Tomatoes and tomato-based foods
• Chocolate
• Spicy or heavily salty foods 
  
  

Options that are more gentle on the bladder are:

• Lean meats and seafood
• Low-acid fruits like bananas, apples, berries and watermelon
• Hydrating veggies like cucumber, celery and lettuce
• Fibre-rich options like kale and carrots
  
• Plenty of water 

Establishing a regular toileting schedule can help prevent accidents. With an ongoing routine, your body and brain can rebuild patterns — giving you a bit more control back.

This could look like:

• Setting regular reminders to use the bathroom
  
  
• Going every 2–3 hours, even if you don’t feel the urge
  
  
• Using this routine as a way to “train” the body to expect and respond at certain times
  
  

For carers, this kind of routine can also reduce the guesswork and make daily life more predictable — for both of you.

In some cases, your doctor or specialist may prescribe medications to manage incontinence, especially in its early stages. 

In some cases — yes. But recovery is personal. The severity of the stroke, the part of the brain affected, your physical condition, and how early you begin treatment all play a role.

Even if it can’t be fully “cured,” it can almost always be managed — and improved.

Talk to your doctor, ask questions, and don’t be afraid to bring up any concerns you may have. This is your health, your comfort, your routine. You deserve to feel heard and supported. 

You're Figuring it Out - One Step at a Time

Stroke recovery can feel like you’re rebuilding everything from the ground up — and incontinence might feel like just one more thing on a very full plate.

But support is out there. Progress is possible. And confidence can be rebuilt. 


Disclaimer: This article is for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of your doctor, physiotherapist, or another qualified health professional with any questions you may have regarding your health or a medical condition. Never ignore or delay seeking professional advice because of something you have read here.