Childbirth And Other Factors Pose Risks For Urinary Incontinence

Main Category: Urology / Nephrology
Also Included In: Pregnancy / Obstetrics;  Nursing / Midwifery
Article Date: 27 Jun 2008 - 5:00 PDT

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Urinary incontinence (UI) is an under-reported and under-diagnosed problem that affects women of all ages. While research shows the risk of UI increases two to three times following pregnancy and vaginal childbirth, other genetic and environmental factors (such as pelvic bone shape, aging and pelvic organ prolapse) can cause UI.

In the June 2008 issue of Urologic Nursing, Lianne F. Herbruck reviews the types of urinary incontinence and risk factors for developing the condition, with a focus on stress urinary incontinence, the most common type of UI in women of childbearing age.

The author says the life-altering financial, emotional and social burdens associated with UI affect women throughout their lives.

Herbruck recommends future researchers investigate which exact genetic and environmental factors have a hand in UI and place some women at greater risk. She also suggests studies focus on modifications and improvements that can be made in labor and birth procedures to lessen the damage to the pelvic floor.

"Urinary Incontinence in the Childbearing Woman"
Lianne F. Herbruck, MSN, RN, CNM
Urologic Nursing; June 2008

Urologic Nursing, the official journal of the Society of Urologic Nurses and Associates (SUNA), presents the latest advances in urologic nursing practice. Written by and for urologic nurses and associates, Urologic Nursing features clinical articles covering a wide variety of urologic issues and clinical procedures. Patient education techniques and research findings are also included, as well as articles discussing the ethical issues and trends in this expanding clinical nursing specialty. Published six times a year.

Urologic Nursing