Urinary incontinence and sexual function in pre-menopausal women

The aim of this cross-sectional, descriptive, correlational study was to determine the nature of the relationship between urinary incontinence and sexual function in pre-menopausal women. Ninety one sexually active pre-menopausal women, with urinary incontinence, between 22 and 54 years of age completed self-assessment questionnaires in the home or in outpatient Urology or Gynecology clinics. The 12 item Prolapse/Urinary Incontinence Sexual Questionnaire (PISQ-12) was used to measure the level of sexual function, and the International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire for Urinary Incontinence (ICIQ-UI) was used to measure the severity of urinary incontinence. Total scores on the PISQ-12 and ICIQ-UI were analysed to determine the nature and strength of the relationship between severity of urinary incontinence and level of sexual function. A significant relationship was found between urinary incontinence and sexual function in pre-menopausal women. Women with more severe urinary symptoms had lower levels of sexual function. Although findings were significant only a weak relationship was found between the two conditions. More research is needed to identify and explain other factors that may impact urinary incontinence and sexual function in pre-menopausal women. In conclusion, results from the study will change clinical practice. Clinicians who understand the relationship between urinary incontinence and sexual function will be able to assess and discuss sexual concerns of the young female patients they treat.