Urinary Incontinence Among Female Patients with Lichen Sclerosus: An Updated Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Yiwen Liu1, Lina Bai1, Mengmeng Zhao1
1The First Affiliated Hospital, First Clinical College, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China.
International Urogynecology Journal
|July 28, 2026
Summary
Lichen sclerosus (LS) in women is linked to a higher prevalence of urinary incontinence (UI). This meta-analysis found a 23% pooled prevalence of UI in LS patients, emphasizing the need for urological assessment in LS care.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology and Urology
- Epidemiology
- Autoimmune Diseases
Background:
- Lichen sclerosus (LS) is a chronic inflammatory skin condition with autoimmune links.
- LS is often observed alongside pelvic floor disorders, including urinary incontinence (UI).
- The precise association between LS and UI requires further clarification.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantitatively synthesize the prevalence of UI in female patients diagnosed with LS.
- To assess the increased risk of developing UI associated with LS.
Main Methods:
- A systematic literature review and meta-analysis of observational studies.
- Searched PubMed, Web of Science, and Medline databases.
- Pooled UI prevalence and calculated risk ratios using meta-analysis techniques.
Main Results:
- Included 13 studies with 52,002 participants; 13,296 had LS.
- Pooled UI prevalence in LS patients was 23% (95% CI 0.12-0.38).
- LS patients faced a 68% higher risk of UI compared to controls (RR 1.28-2.19).
Conclusions:
- LS in women is associated with a significantly higher prevalence of UI.
- Highlights the necessity for integrated, multidisciplinary care for LS patients.
- Recommends routine urological assessment in LS management and further prospective research.
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