The effects of urinary incontinence on sexuality: seeking an intimate partnership

The purpose of this study was to investigate the impact of urinary incontinence (UI) on sexuality and intimate relationships.

Thirty-two problem-centered interviews were conducted with 22 community-dwelling women and 10 men between 38 and 83 years of age. Their mean age was 54.8 years; their age range was 38 to 83 years. Interviews were primarily conducted in participants' homes across Germany.

A qualitative design, based on the Grounded Theory method, was used for data collection.

Urinary incontinence influenced 4 important areas: (1) sexuality, (2) existing partnerships, (3) new partnerships, and (4) the search for professional help. Participants reported that a part of their male or female identity was lost. In some cases, UI led to separation, which was experienced as very hurtful for participants and had negative impact on the search for a new partnership. While some persons developed strategies to enjoy a fulfilling sexual life despite incontinence, others gave up hope of finding sexual intimacy. The participants in this study rarely felt understood or supported by health care professionals.

Participants reported that UI resulted in changes in their sex life that affected both them and their partners. Some participants reported that part of their male or female identity had been lost because of restrictions in sexual activities imposed by urine loss.