The research done by the University of Glamorgan will ask women what information they need to help them deal with incontinence. The Study could also lead to the development of specific information tailored towards women’s needs.

This comes after research carried out by Dr Christine Shaw found that few women from incontinence seeked help for the condition.

She said: ‘Only about 15% of women with symptoms of frequency or urgency seek help largely because they are embarrassed and they believe that there is very little treatment available.’

‘There is also a lack of knowledge about the symptoms and a lot of women believe that it is just part of the ageing process or consequence of having had a baby or two.’

The study will involve about 20 women who are experiencing incontinence, in particular those who have not sought help from their GP. It will ask them about what they believe will be the best form of help for them.

Dr Shaw said: ‘One model is the expert patient programme which is a group-based intervention that helps people self-manage a condition.’

‘Another approach may be information on the internet, but because incontinence is an age-related condition, there may be issues about access.’

‘We’re trying to find out what women would prefer and what type of information they want, be it about self-management, treatment or help from health professionals.’