Children's Continence Program

Children who come to the Children’s Continence Program at Riley at IU Health may have:

• Behavioral issues stemming from conditions such as autism, ADHD, oppositional defiance disorder or Down syndrome
• Genetic conditions
• Neurologic conditions such as spina bifida or cerebral palsy
• Spinal cord injuries
• Voiding dysfunctions

Riley at IU Health provides latest technology and advanced treatment options for children with incontinence. We are the only hospital in Indiana to offer flouro-urodynamics, a test that measures how the bladder stores and empties pee.

We also provide neuromuscular re-education or biofeedback, a noninvasive option that uses video games to help children with pelvic floor dysfunction and other voiding issues learn how to use the muscles that control the bladder.

Developing a Unique Treatment Plan

Most children come to our program through a referral from a pediatrician or healthcare provider who provides a medical and treatment history for persistent incontinence.

At the first visit, staff talks with you and your child to review this history. If additional information is needed to make a diagnosis, an appointment is made for testing. Once we review your child’s history and tests are complete, we create an initial treatment plan for your child. This might include any of the following:

• Adequate fluid intake
• Biofeedback
• Constipation management
• Education regarding healthy bowel and bladder function
• Dietary recommendations
• Good hygiene
• Medications
• Proper toilet posture
• Relaxation techniques
• Timed schedule for toileting

Incontinence can be an ongoing challenge, so our staff provides follow-up care for your child to assess the effectiveness of treatment and suggest additional testing and treatment options if needed.