Do women with overactive bladder have realistic expectations for therapy?

Abstract

This study aims to determine what women with overactive bladder (OAB) perceive as 'cure', assesses treatment acceptability and adverse events. It also determines impact on quality of life (QoL) and correlates it with expectations from therapy. In 153 women with predominant OAB symptoms, QoL and expectations regarding 'cure' were assessed using KHQ and a novel questionnaire. Analyses were performed using Pearson's correlation and ANOVA. Conservative measures and lifestyle modifications were acceptable whilst urge incontinence, coital incontinence, constant pad and medication usage were unpopular. Overall, 65% expected to stop leaking altogether once treated. Older women were less prepared to accept side effects such as constipation (p=0.03) and dry mouth (p=0.012). ANOVA showed significant difference between mean QoL scores for women with different expectations of cure (p=0.049). Majority of women have realistic expectations regarding treatment and are willing to tolerate minor symptoms. Regular antimuscarinics remain unpopular and may explain low persistence.