PROPORTION AND RISK FACTORS OF URINARY INCONTINENCE AMONG PERIMENOPAUSAL WOMEN
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Keywords
Urinary incontinence, perimenopausal women, risk factors, pelvic floor dysfunction, chronic constipation, urinary tract infections, psychological stress, quality of life
Abstract
Background :This study aims to determine the proportion of urinary incontinence among perimenopausal women and assess the associated risk factors, including demographic characteristics, reproductive history, medical conditions, and lifestyle behaviors.
Methods :This cross-sectional study was carried out at Jinnah Medical College and its affiliated hospital between January 2023 and January 2024. A total of 101 perimenopausal women, aged between 40 and 54 years, were enrolled. Data collection was conducted through a structured questionnaire, which gathered information on demographic characteristics, medical history, reproductive health, and lifestyle factors. Urinary incontinence was categorized into stress, urge, or mixed types based on participants’ self-reported symptoms. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS software, with chi-square tests and independent t-tests employed to determine significant associations. A p-value of less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant.
Results :The prevalence of urinary incontinence among perimenopausal women was found to be 45%. Age showed an increasing trend with urinary incontinence, though ‘not statistically significant (p = 0.064)’. ‘A significant association was’ found between perineal trauma (p = 0.048), chronic constipation (p = 0.013), and recurrent urinary tract infections (p = 0.004) with urinary incontinence. Psychological factors, including high perceived stress (p = 0.032) and poor sleep quality (p = 0.014), were also significantly linked to incontinence. ‘Other variables such as body mass index, smoking, and caffeine intake’ did not show statistically significant associations.
Conclusion :Urinary incontinence is a prevalent condition among perimenopausal women, with multiple contributing factors. The study highlights the impact of perineal trauma, chronic constipation, recurrent urinary infections, and psychological stress in the development of incontinence. These findings emphasize the need for targeted interventions, including pelvic floor rehabilitation, lifestyle modifications, and early medical management to improve the quality of life for affected women. Further research with larger populations is recommended to strengthen these findings and guide preventive strategies.
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Dr. Haseena Naz
Consultant, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Women and Children Hospital Rajjar, Charsadda, Pakistan
Dr. Naila Raziq
Consultant, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Cat D Hospital Bazar, Zakha khel, KPK, Pakistan
Dr. Aiman Munir
Consultant, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Women and Children Hospital Rajjar, Charsadda, Pakistan
Dr. Afrah Aman
Assistant Professor, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Kuwait Teaching Hospital, Peshawar, Pakistan
Dr. Mehwish Syed
Assistant Professor, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Qazi Husain Medical Complex, Nowshaera, KPK, Pakistan
Dr. Shadab Shakir
Trainee Medical Officer, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Lady Reading Hospital, Peshawar, Pakistan
Dr. Najeeb Najeeb Ullah
Senior Medical Officer, Department of Medicine, Shifa International Hospital,Islamabad, Pakistan
Dr. Samina Naz
Medical Officer, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Lady Reading Hospital, Peshawar, Pakistan
Dr. Shazia Sartaj
Gynaecologist, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, SIHET Hospital, Koz Durushkhela, Pakistan
Dr. Sohail Ahmad
Medical Officer, Department of Medicine, Cat D Hospital MERF Bazar, Zakhakhel, Pakistan