Title : Unveiling the burden: Exploring urinary incontinence in perimenopausal women in a tertiary hospital, Bangladesh
Abstract:
Background: Urinary incontinence (UI) affects women both physically and psychologically, with varying prevalence rates among perimenopausal and older women. This study aimed to determine the proportion and risk factors of UI in perimenopausal women, including subtypes such as stress urinary incontinence (SUI), urge incontinence (UUI), and mixed urinary incontinence (MUI).
Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted at the Obstetrics & Gynaecology department of Sir Salimullah Medical College Mitford Hospital, Dhaka. Perimenopausal women attending the outpatient department were included, and data on socio-demographic characteristics, obstetric history, menstrual status, previous illnesses, and medication use were collected using a structured questionnaire. The presence and types of UI were assessed using the questionnaire for female urinary Incontinence diagnosis (QUID).
Result: Out of 120 Participant the prevalence of urinary incontinence was 65.8%, with mixed urinary incontinence being the most common subtype (53%), followed by stress urinary incontinence (30%) and urge incontinence (17%). The risk of UI increased with advancing age.Mean age was higher (48.77+4.54) in incontinent group and statistically significant (P<0.05). Homemakers had a higher prevalence of urinary incontinence. Menopausal women were at increased risk. Surgical menopause, co-existing gynecological disease, and hysterectomy showed no statistically significant relationship (P>0.05). Increased BMI was associated with mixed urinary incontinence. Among multiparous incontinent women, mixed urinary incontinence was most common (34.45%), followed by stress urinary incontinence (20.17%) and urge incontinence (10.92%). Cesarean section was associated with mixed urinary incontinence. Postmenopausal women had higher prevalence of mixed urinary incontinence. Gynecological disease, pelvic organ prolapse, and hysterectomy had no significant relationship. Chronic constipation, diabetes mellitus, and hypertension were more prevalent among incontinent women, particularly in relation to mixed urinary incontinence, but no statistical significance was found (P>0.05).
Conclusion: The proportion of urinary incontinence was 76.2% with mixed urinary incontinence was more common. Age, occupation, number of vaginal deliveries, and postmenopausal status were significantly associated with of urinary incontinence in perimenopausal women.
Keywords: Urinary incontinence, Proportion, Risk factors
Audience Take Away Notes:
- Understand the prevalence and subtypes of urinary incontinence in perimenopausal women
- Identify the significant risk factors associated with urinary incontinence, including age, occupation, number of vaginal deliveries, and postmenopausal status
- Gain insights into the relationship between urinary incontinence and factors such as BMI, mode of delivery, and comorbidities like chronic constipation, diabetes mellitus, and hypertension
Utilization of Findings:
- Healthcare professionals can apply the knowledge gained to better assess, diagnose, and manage urinary incontinence in perimenopausal women, improving patient care and quality of life
- The research findings can guide the development of targeted interventions and preventive strategies to address the risk factors and reduce the prevalence of urinary incontinence in this population
- Other faculty members can utilize this research to expand their own investigations or incorporate the findings into teaching materials, enhancing their research or teaching endeavors
- The insights provided can contribute to the development of practical solutions for managing and treating urinary incontinence, potentially simplifying and improving the efficiency of healthcare professionals' job roles
- The research may improve the accuracy of designing interventions or programs aimed at addressing urinary incontinence, providing new information and strategies for effective management
- The findings raise awareness about the significance of addressing urinary incontinence in perimenopausal women and highlight the need for further research, advocacy, and policy development in this area
- Ultimately, the research aims to improve the overall understanding, management, and quality of life for perimenopausal women affected by urinary incontinence
