Urinary incontinence among Jordanian women: Prevalence, types, and associated factors

Objective

Urinary incontinence (UI) is a prevalent condition with a negative impact on women's quality of life. Data about UI among Jordanian women are lacking; therefore, we aimed to investigate the prevalence, types, and associated factors.

Methods

A cross sectional nationwide survey was conducted between 1 March 2020 and 15 April 2020. Women were included if they were 18 years of age or more and had access to the internet. Data collected included women's characteristics, UI types, and associated factors. UI was inventoried by asking women if they have UI (yes/no), and the Arabic language validated International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire Urinary Incontinence-Short Form was used. Age-group specific prevalence rates of UI were estimated, and associated factors were studied using logistic regression analyses.

Results

Data from 2118 women were analysed. The median age was 40 (range 18–85) years; 58.3% gave birth three or more times; and 64.1% consistently reported having UI. Limited mobility and being multiparous increased the likelihood of reporting UI. Compared to women with normal body mass index, overweight and obese women were 1.9 times and 4.4 times more likely to report UI, respectively.

Conclusion

The prevalence of UI among Jordanian women is 64.1%, with mixed UI and stress UI being the more prevalent types in women younger than 60 years old. Age, parity body mass index, and limited mobility are all associated factors with UI. The results of this study provide healthcare policy makers with the necessary information to increase awareness and knowledge regarding UI.