Examining workplace behaviors in adult women with urinary incontinence: A pilot study

Abstract

Background: Urinary incontinence is a growing issue among adult women globally. Limited data exist examining the impact of occupational, environmental, and behavioral factors on urinary incontinence. Objective: This quantitative, cross-sectional pilot study examined the workplace behaviors of adult women experiencing urinary incontinence. It was hypothesized that specific jobs and work environments would be associated with increased urinary incontinence and urgency based on identified behaviors and work-related conditions. Design: This study is a quantitative, cross-sectional survey. Methods: Adult women (18 years and older) with a history of urinary incontinence were recruited from August 2022 to February 2023 to complete a one-time survey consisting of multiple-choice and short answer questions identifying specific workplace behaviors and symptoms of urinary incontinence. Descriptive statistics and data categorization were used to observe outcomes and examine relationships between urinary incontinence and particular professions. Results: Urinary incontinence and urgency-related symptoms affected healthcare and business professionals at a higher prevalence. The most commonly reported behaviors across all professions consisted of withholding urine and utilizing absorbance products. Conclusion: The results of this study will help guide women’s health practitioners in exploring current workplace behaviors that may contribute to urinary incontinence in adult women. With this knowledge, practitioners can provide meaningful education to employers and employees to prioritize toileting behaviors in the workplace.