The Experience of Urinary Incontinence and Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms on Work Participation: A Scoping Review

Urinary incontinence (UI) and lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) are largely invisible to others. Managing these conditions can restrict participation in life roles, particularly those involving community life, such as participating in work occupations. The purpose was to describe existing and emerging evidence on the experience of UI/LUTS on participation in work.

A scoping review, using the Joanna Briggs Institute methodology, was conducted. Six academic databases plus supplementary web-based search engines were systematically searched to locate evidence. Records describing the experience of UI/LUTS on work participation, available in English and full text, published in or after 2002 were included.

The review included 39 records. Most evidence collected data via self-report on quantitative instruments measuring the impact of UI/LUTS on work participation, revealing sparse research exploring the experience in work of individuals with UI/LUTS using qualitative methodologies. UI/LUTS limited work participation for individuals of all ages, and sex. Individuals with increased UI/LUTS severity reported greater cognitive, physical and psychosocial impacts on work participation. UI/LUTS were exacerbated by job type, specific work activities, inflexible work scheduling, and workplace design, for example, restricted bathroom access, breaks, or relief workers. Individuals with UI/LUTS employed varied management strategies including delayed voiding, fluid restriction, and wearing incontinence products at work.

UI/LUTS impacts work participation with the burden for managing symptoms falling heavily on individuals. A deeper understanding of the impact on work from individuals living with UI/LUTS is needed to guide practice, design, and policies to increase inclusion and participation.