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Urinary incontinence in working women: a comparison study
Mary H Palmer1, Sheila Fitzgerald
1University of North Carolina Chapel Hill School of Nursing, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599-7460, USA. mhpalmer@email.unc.edu
Journal of Women'S Health (2002)
|March 11, 2003
Summary
Urinary incontinence affects working women, with prevalence and management strategies differing between academic and manufacturing settings. Most women desire more information on incontinence despite low perceived treatment importance.
Area of Science:
- Urology
- Occupational Health
- Women's Health
Background:
- Urinary incontinence (UI) is a prevalent condition affecting women's quality of life.
- Understanding UI in working women across different employment sectors is crucial for targeted interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the prevalence, nature, and management strategies of urinary incontinence among full-time employed women in distinct work environments.
- To identify differences in incontinence experiences and treatment-seeking behaviors between urban academic and rural manufacturing settings.
Main Methods:
- Two surveys were conducted: one with 2000 women in an urban academic setting and another with 500 women in a rural pottery manufacturing facility.
- Data collected included incontinence prevalence, type, management strategies, and attitudes toward treatment and information seeking.
Main Results:
- Prevalence of monthly incontinence was higher in manufacturing (29%) versus academic (21%) settings.
- Significant differences observed in incontinence types (mixed vs. stress/urge) and management strategies (panty liners, voiding schedules, pelvic exercises).
- Many women were unaware of improvement possibilities, yet overwhelmingly desired more information on incontinence.
Conclusions:
- Urinary incontinence is common among working women, with variations in presentation and management based on work environment.
- Current secondary prevention strategies for incontinence may not adequately address the diverse needs of women in different occupational settings.
- There is a clear need for tailored educational resources and interventions to improve incontinence awareness and management in working women.