Physical activity level and urinary incontinence in women after stroke: a cross-sectional study

Urinary incontinence (UI) is a common complication after stroke and negatively affects quality of life (QoL). However, the relationship between physical activity and UI in women with stroke remains unclear. To investigate the relationship between physical activity and UI and identify associated clinical and demographic factors in women with stroke. This observational cross-sectional study included 108 women with stroke. UI severity and impact were assessed using the Urogenital Distress Inventory-6 (UDI-6) and Incontinence Impact Questionnaire-7 (IIQ-7). Physical activity was evaluated using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire-Short Form (IPAQ-SF). Correlation analyses were interpreted using established cut-off values for strength of association. UI was present in 78.7% of participants. Higher UI frequency was associated with older age, higher urinary symptom severity (UDI-6) and impact on quality of life (IIQ-7), lower physical activity levels, and longer sitting time (p < 0.05). Physical activity variables showed significant negative correlations with UDI-6 and IIQ-7 scores, except for vigorous physical activity, which showed no significant associations. Body mass index and stroke type did not differ significantly across UI-related groups. UI was associated with age and lower physical activity levels, as well as longer sitting time. Increased urinary symptom severity was accompanied by poorer QoL. Physical activity was inversely associated with urinary outcomes, whereas body mass index and stroke type did not differ across UI-related measures.