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Neurogenic Lower Urinary Tract Dysfunction in Women With Multiple Sclerosis
Kruti Patel1, Amy Yan1, Alejandra Cacheiro2
1University of California, Irvine School of Medicine.
Urogynecology (Philadelphia, Pa.)
|May 12, 2026
Summary
Women with multiple sclerosis experience significant neurogenic lower urinary tract dysfunction and pelvic floor disorders, often unaddressed in routine care. Improved screening and patient education are crucial for better management and quality of life.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Urology
- Women's Health
Background:
- Multiple sclerosis (MS) frequently causes neurogenic lower urinary tract dysfunction (NLUTD) and pelvic floor disorders (PFDs), impacting quality of life.
- Common PFDs include recurrent urinary tract infections (rUTIs) and sexual dysfunction, yet patients report these issues are often overlooked in standard MS care.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the experiences of women with MS and NLUTD.
- To identify barriers hindering adequate care for these conditions.
- To pinpoint areas for enhancing management strategies in routine MS care.
Main Methods:
- A mixed-methods approach combining validated patient-reported outcome measures and qualitative semistructured interviews.
- Participants included 18 female patients aged 18+ with MS and NLUTD, stratified by disease duration (<5, 5-10, 10+ years).
- Validated questionnaires (SF-36, BCS, SSS) and interviews were used, with statistical and thematic analyses performed.
Main Results:
- Urinary urgency (83.3%) and frequency (55.6%) were prevalent; 38.9% experienced rUTIs and 16.7% had stress urinary incontinence.
- Patients diagnosed <5 years ago reported better overall health (SF-36). Bladder Control Scale (BCS) scores were highest in the 10+ year group, and Sexual Satisfaction Survey (SSS) scores in the 5-10 year group.
- Qualitative data revealed normalization of NLUTD/PFDs, diagnostic delays, and significant quality of life impacts.
Conclusions:
- Women with MS and NLUTD have significant unmet needs within current healthcare.
- Recommendations include implementing routine urinary dysfunction screening, promoting provider-initiated discussions, and enhancing patient education.
- Addressing NLUTD and PFDs is vital for improving the overall well-being of women with MS.
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