PREVALENCE OF URINARY INCONTINENCE AMONG FEMALE ATHLETES

Abstract

Aim. To evaluate the prevalence of urinary incontinence (UI) between female athletes and women who are not athlets. Methods. Case control study was conducted. Participants were 18-39 years old respondents. They were divided into case (track and field athletics, basketball and volleyball players) and control (women who are not athlets) groups. Respondents have filled four questionnaires: questionnaire regarding anthropometric and demographic variables, International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire – Short Form (ICIQ–SF) questionnaire, Incontinence Impact Questionnaire (IIQ–7), International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ). Results. Overall 244 women were enrolled in our study (120 were in the case and 124 in the control group). The prevalence of UI among athletes was 27.5%, and in the control group – 4.8%. 25,4% of basketball players had UI, track and field athletes – 30% and volleyball players – 29%. A positive correlation between high–impact activities and prevalence of UI symptoms (p = 0.004) and severity of UI symptoms (ICIQ–SF score) (p = 0.005) was found. Women with UI had worse quality of life and positive correlation between ICIQ–SF score and IIQ–7 score, showing that more severe UI symptoms lead to worse quality of life. Conclusion. The prevalence of UI among female athletes was statistically significantly more frequent compared with women who are not athlets.