For as long as people have experienced bladder dysfunction and incontinence, caregivers, physicians, scientists, and patients have sought ways to understand and manage these conditions. Continence: A History of Care traces this evolving story through a selection of historical instruments, clinical records, artworks, and related artefacts. From early efforts to measure bladder function to creative and cultural responses to micturition and continence, the objects in this exhibition reveal changing ideas about the body, health, dignity, and care. Together they offer a glimpse into the scientific advances, personal experiences, and human ingenuity that have shaped continence care across generations.
This exhibition has been curated by Philip Van Kerrebroeck, Director of the ICS History Office, preserving and sharing the history of continence care through historical objects, documents and artworks. To learn more or contribute, please contact the ICS History Office