Urinary Incontinence's Prevalence, Risk Factors, and Quality of Life Impact on Working Women in Saudi Arabia

This study aimed to investigate the prevalence and severity of Urinary incontinence (UI) among working women in Saudi Arabia (SA), identify the associated demographic, lifestyle, medical, and obstetric risk factors, and assess its effect on quality of life and work productivity. The UI is a common underreported condition that affects women's daily functioning and life quality, particularly in the workplace.

During 2025, 390 working women in SA who were at least 18 years old and from various work sectors participated in a descriptive cross-sectional survey. Data were gathered using a validated, structured questionnaire; statistical analysis was carried out using SPSS version 27.

Urinary incontinence prevalence was 30.3%. Significant associations were found between UI and increased age (R² = 0.160) (p < 0.001), obesity (mean difference = 0.20, SE = 0.06, p = 0.002, 95% CI [0.05, 0.35]). Parity and a history of both vaginal and cesarean deliveries were closely associated with stress UI (mean difference = 1.238, SE = 0.401, p = 0.016). Life quality was undesirably affected in 14.4% of women with UI, and 46.3% experienced negative workplace impacts because of UI.

In SA, UI is a common and complex disorder. To lessen its effects and promote the health and productivity of working women, it is crucial to implement targeted workplace initiatives, public health education, and better access to care.