Urinary Symptoms and their Impact on Young Women’s Sexual Function and Quality of Life

Abstract

Sexuality and urinary function have received scarce research attention in younger women. In this cross-sectional survey study, prevalence, type, severity, and impact of urinary incontinence (UI), and its relationship with sexuality was investigated in 261 nulliparous women aged 18-27 (M = 19.08 years). Modules of the International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire and the Female Sexual Function Index assessed UI, sexual function, and quality of life. Thirty percent of the sample experienced UI, and 26% reported sexual function problems. A significant small negative correlation was found between UI and sexual lubrication (p = .017). Forty-three percent of participants in the total sample reported that they were bothered by urinary symptoms, and 13% avoided sexual activity due to urinary symptoms. Of those classified as incontinent, 90% were bothered by their symptoms. Urinary symptoms are impactful on the quality of life and sexual lives of young women, but despite their high prevalence, they remain a largely understudied and undertreated issue in this age group. Further research is crucial for improving awareness and access to treatment for this underserved population.