Fecal and Urinary Incontinence Associated with Pregnancy and Childbirth

Abstract

Introduction: Fecal incontinence (FI) and urinary incontinence (UI) are major problems faced by women worldwide, with pregnancy and delivery representing two major risk factors for these conditions. The prevalence of FI and UI varies across studies. In our region, only a few publications have addressed this topic.

Aim: The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of FI and UI in Saudi pregnant women, their characteristics, and a specific clinical pattern that could identify patients that are at a risk for incontinence.

Materials and methods: This was a questionnaire-based crosssectional study conducted over a 3 months period in 2017, among pregnant women attending King Abdulaziz University Hospital, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.

Results: Our study included 393 pregnant women. FI was reported by 24 patients (6.1%), and fecal urgency was reported by 30.5%. UI was reported by 84 patients (21.4 %). When patients with no UI were compared with patients with UI, the only statistically significant factor was BMI (p = 0.043). There were no statistically significant differences when comparing patients with FI versus no-FI, and fecal urgency versus no-fecal urgency. However, laceration (OR: 1.696, p = 0.036), episiotomy (OR: 1.413, p = 0.029), constipation (OR: 1.944, p < 0.001), hypertension (OR: 1.993, p = 0.022), and Bristol stool scale score (p = 0.002) were statistically significant factors for determining fecal control.

Conclusion: FI and UI are frequently associated with pregnancy and delivery, but their prevalence is underestimated. The role of the practitioner is crucial in preventing and treating these conditions, and in impeding their harmful effects on the postpregnancy quality of life of Saudi women.

Keywords: Childbirth; Fecal incontinence; Jeddah; Saudi Arabia; delivery; fecal urgency; pregnancy; urinary incontinence.