Quality of life of Brazilian women with urinary incontinence and the impact on their sexual function

Abstract

Introduction and objectiveSexual function may be affected in women with urinary incontinence (UI), but data regarding this association are controversial. The aim of this study was to assess the impact of sociodemographic characteristics in the sexual function of Brazilian women with UI. Study designCross-sectional study with 251 women with UI in the period from April to June 2014. Firstly, sociodemographic and pelvic floor dysfunctions (PFD) characteristics were compared between groups of women with and without sexual activity. Secondly, we compared the variables above with the total score of Pelvic Organ Prolapse and/or Urinary Incontinence Sexual Questionnaire (PISQ-12). For continuous variables, we used the Mann–Whitney or Kruskal–Wallis test; for categorical variables we used the chi-square statistic considering the difference of p<0.05. ResultsWomen with sexual activity tend to be younger, to be premenopausal, have a steady partner and not be hypertensive. The mean total score of PISQ-12 was 27.30. Women who attended elementary school, with coital UI, with moderate constipation and symptomatic prolapse have worse sexual function. Premenopausal women with mixed urinary incontinence have worse sexual function than those with stress urinary incontinence. ConclusionThe association between sexual dysfunction and UI deserves special attention from health professionals. The care of the maintenance or restoration of sexual well-being should be offered to all women, regardless of age, since UI may affect sexual life and QoL of these women.