Urology Awareness Month 2025: Time to act on bladder leakage

Every September, Urology Awareness Month shines a spotlight on the importance of urological health. This year, the campaign led by The Urology Foundation focuses on a pressing and often overlooked issue: bladder leakage, under the theme “Bladder Leakage: Time to Act”.  Read more here.

Bladder leakage, or urinary incontinence, affects 1 in 5 people in the UK, with 1 in 3 women living with the condition. It’s not just a matter of inconvenience—it can severely impact mental health, social life, and physical wellbeing. Yet, despite its prevalence, many suffer in silence due to stigma, lack of awareness, and limited access to specialist care.

Understanding the impacts of urology

The statistics are sobering:

• 14 million people in the UK experience bladder problems.
• £233 million is the estimated annual cost to the NHS.
• Over 50% of care home residents live with urinary incontinence.
• Patients with incontinence are at increased risk of hospital-acquired infections and longer hospital stays.

For women, especially younger women aged 25–34, the emotional toll is significant. A recent survey revealed:

• 76% reported a negative impact on mental health.
• 27% avoid gyms and fitness classes.
• 83% want better access to specialists.

When urological care goes wrong

At Freeths, we understand that behind these statistics are real people—many of whom have experienced clinical negligence in their urological care. Urology covers a wide range of conditions affecting the kidneys, bladder, urethra, and reproductive system. When care falls short, the consequences can be life-altering.

Common examples of urology negligence include:

• Misdiagnosis or delayed diagnosis of conditions like kidney stones, UTIs, or urological cancers.
• Surgical errors, such as damage to organs or nerves.
• Medication mistakes or inadequate postoperative care.
• Neglecting comorbid conditions that worsen urological health
• Delayed diagnosis and treatment of a pelvic organ prolapse e.g. uterus, bladder (cystocele), and rectum (rectocele). 
• Delayed diagnosis and repair of a vaginal tear after birth
• Insertion of vaginal mesh without being adequately informed of the risks

Why this month matters

Urology Awareness Month is not just about education—it’s a call to action. It’s a chance to:

• Break the stigma around bladder leakage.
• Encourage open conversations about urological health.
• Empower patients to seek help and hold providers accountable when care falls short.