Fig. 4

Conceptual model - Living with urinary incontinence: is it just part and parcel of life?, Our model shows that being incontinent has an effect on a person’s identity and mood. It conceptualises living with UI as navigating antagonists: (i) Is UI normal or am I ill? (ii) Do I need help or am I managing? (iii) Do I keep UI to myself (and manage alone) or do I tell other people (and get the support that I need)? (iv) Do I use control strategies that focus on concealing (avoid risky situations, wear pads) versus, I use strategies that focus on improving the bodily function to improve continence. These dualities are not mutually exclusive. Our model highlights the experience of stigma, shame and guilt which exert a pull towards concealment