Urinary Incontinence and Its Risk Factors Among Women Residing at Rural Village Vayalanallur: A Hospital Based Study

Abstract

Introduction: Urinary incontinence (UI) is a widespread condition that is often under reported and has a considerable impact on women's well-being. Causes of incontinence may include weakening pelvic floor muscles, nerve damage, medical issues, and aging. In rural settings, UI can be under reported due to stigma, limited awareness, and healthcare access barriers. Age, obesity, multiparity, menopause, comorbidities, and surgical history are risk contributors.

Objectives: To find out the proportion of rural women having urinary incontinence and its risk factors among women residing in rural village vayalanallur.

Methods: This is an observational, cross-sectional study conducted among 201 participants at Sri Ramachandra Hospital, Vayalanallur. The three types of UI - stress urinary incontinence (SUI), mixed urinary incontinence (MUI), and urge urinary incontinence (UUI) were reported based on self-reported symptoms. For the study, demographic data were collected along with the QUID [questionnaire for urinary incontinence diagnosis]. The obtained data were statistically analysed using chi square test.

Results: In our study, the overall prevalence of UI was 41% in the 201 participants. Of the different types of UI, SUI was the most common (22%), followed by MUI (11%) and UUI (8%). Significant associations were observed with older age (p = 0.001), (BMI) body mass index (p = 0.03), and postmenopausal women (p = 0.028). 

Conclusions: UI was significantly correlated with age, BMI, and menopause, with SUI being the predominant type. Awareness programs and early detection may have a positive impact on UI prevention.