Risk factors for urinary, fecal, or double incontinence in women

Abstract

Purpose of review: To review recent, significant contributions to the medical literature regarding the identification of factors which are associated with urinary, fecal, and double incontinence in women.

Recent findings: Approximately one out of five women suffers from moderate to severe urinary incontinence, one out of 10 has fecal incontinence, and 2.5% have double incontinence of urine and stool. Obesity is primarily associated with urinary incontinence, whereas diabetes mellitus is a stronger risk factor for fecal incontinence. Double incontinence is primarily associated with advanced age, depression, and decompensating medical conditions that denote frailty.

Summary: Knowledge regarding which clinical conditions and patient characteristics are strongly associated with each type of incontinence helps identify those patients who are at risk and aids in targeted screening and treatment programs.