Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 23, 2025
Real-Time Void Spot Assay
Published on: February 10, 2023
Impact of Lifestyle on Urinary Incontinence Severity among Women: A Cross-Sectional Study in East China
Qianqian Li1,2, Xuan Ji2, Lang Zhuo3
1Obstetrics Department, The Affiliated Suqian Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Suqian, Jiangsu, China.
Introduction And Hypothesis:
Identifying the factors influencing the development of female urinary incontinence (UI) may facilitate early intervention, potentially delaying its progression. This study was aimed at investigating the impact of lifestyle habits on the severity of UI among women in East China.
Methods:
This study included 414 women from six communities in East China who reported symptoms of UI and was conducted between September and December 2020. Data were collected using a general information questionnaire, the Toileting Behaviours: Women's Elimination Behaviours scale, and the International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire Urinary Incontinence Short Form Chinese Version. Participants were categorised into two groups: those with mild UI and those with moderate-to-severe UI. Propensity-score matching was performed to balance confounding factors, and logistic regression was used to explore the relationship between lifestyle behaviours and UI severity.
Results:
A total of 117 pairs were successfully matched. Logistic regression analysis revealed that daily perineal cleaning significantly protected against moderate-to-severe UI (p < 0.05). Conversely, living alone, poor sleep quality and hovering over the toilet while voiding were identified as independent risk factors for moderate-to-severe UI (p < 0.05).
Conclusion:
Several lifestyle habits significantly impact the severity of UI among adult women. Screening for mild urinary leakage symptoms and implementing timely interventions are crucial for preventing the aggravation of UI and improving ability to work and quality of life.
