Self-Assessment of Lower Urinary Tract Condition in Female Competitive Cyclists

Area of Science:

• Urology
• Sports Medicine
• Pelvic Floor Health

Background:

• Prolonged cycling saddle pressure and prolonged sitting can increase intra-abdominal pressure, potentially impacting pelvic floor function.
• Female athletes, particularly cyclists, may be at higher risk for pelvic floor dysfunction due to the nature of their sport.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the incidence and severity of lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTSs) in female competitive cyclists.
• To compare LUTSs in female cyclists versus a control group of non-athletic women.

Main Methods:

• A comparative study involving 76 female competitive cyclists and 76 physically inactive women.
• Utilized the Core Lower Urinary Tract Symptom Score (CLSS) questionnaire to assess urinary conditions.

Main Results:

• Female cyclists exhibited significantly higher overall LUTSs scores and CLSS scores compared to the control group.
• Higher incidence and severity of urinary frequency, urge incontinence, stress incontinence, and bladder pain were observed in cyclists.
• Years of cycling, weekly training hours, and number of natural births were associated with increased symptom severity in female cyclists.

Conclusions:

• Competitive female cyclists have a greater prevalence and severity of LUTSs compared to non-athletic women.
• Training volume and parity (number of natural births) significantly influence LUTSs severity in female cyclists.
• The findings highlight the need for awareness and potential interventions regarding pelvic floor health in female cyclists.