IMPACT OF URINARY INCONTINENCE ON THE QUALITY OF LIFE AND FEMALE SEXUALITY

The prevalence of urinary incontinence is around 20% of healthy middle-aged women. Incontinence has a negative impact on quality of life and sexuality. From August 2002 to January 2004, 30 patients (mean age 43 years) with stress urinary incontinence (59%) overactive bladder (15%0) and mixed incontinence (26%) answered the ICIQSF (International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire - Short From) and FSFI (Female Sexual Function Index) questionnaires before and after treatment. The follow up ranged from 12 to 53 months. Mean ICIQ score was 17 and 7 before and after treatment respectively (p< 0,001). Overactive bladder showed the worst scores in all domains. The patients underwent surgery to increase desire (p=0,02), satisfaction (p=0,05) and t otal score (p=0,02). In 13 patients the ICIQ score did not increase: desire (p=0,01), satisfaction (p=0,05) and total score (p=0,01). Urinary incontinence significantly affects the quality of life. A sexuality evaluation in incontinence patients is recommended.