[Diagnostic testing of female urinary incontinence: dos and dont's]

Urinary incontinence causes significant limitations in quality of life and reduces mental and physical health. It is a widespread and chronic disease. About 200 million people are affected by urinary incontinence worldwide. Females are more often affected than males. For the therapy of female urinary incontinence various conservative and surgical treatment measures are available. A comprehensive diagnostic work-up is crucial for effective and successful use of those therapeutical measures. The current paper gives a review of diagnostic options for female urinary incontinence: from non-invasive up to invasive investigations. It presents potential pitfalls and possibilities for improving the diagnostic work-up.