How Urinary Incontinence Affects Women’s Quality of Life
The Silent Suffering
Urinary incontinence, also known as a leaky bladder, can be a debilitating condition that affects millions of women worldwide. For Sarah, a 35-year-old mother of three, the condition has become a constant source of discomfort and embarrassment. "I often feel like I’m constantly worried about how others perceive me, especially during social interactions with friends," she says. "It’s like I’m living with a constant fear that I’ll have an accident, even while I’m on my way to the restroom."
The Physical and Emotional Impact
Urinary incontinence can have a profound impact on a woman’s quality of life. According to Dr. Ixora Kamisan Atan, an associate professor with 17 years of experience in gynaecology and 12 years in urogynaecology, the condition refers to the inability to control urination. "Common problems arising from weakened or impaired pelvic floor muscles include urinary leakage, faecal leakage, pelvic organ prolapse (uterine prolapse), and sexual dysfunction," she explains.
The Two Main Types of Urinary Incontinence
Dr. Ixora lists the two most common types of urinary incontinence: stress urinary incontinence and urge urinary incontinence. Stress urinary incontinence occurs when urine leaks involuntarily during activities such as coughing, sneezing, laughing, or exercising, while urge urinary incontinence is characterized by a sudden and intense urge to urinate.
Who is at Risk
Urinary incontinence is particularly common among women, especially those who have been pregnant and given birth, are menopausal, obese, suffer from nerve disorders or chronic illnesses such as diabetes or lung disease, are aging, or lead unhealthy lifestyles.
The Silent Suffering: Why Women Stay Silent
What concerns Dr. Ixora most is the widespread sense of embarrassment that often causes women to remain silent about the issue. "They are often too embarrassed to discuss the issue openly, including hesitating to consult a doctor for advice and treatment. As a result, they experience feelings of insecurity, discomfort, stress, and depression," she says. "For Muslim women, it also creates challenges in performing prayers due to concerns about cleanliness and personal purity."
Breaking the Silence: Seeking Treatment and Education
Dr. Ixora urges patients to consult doctors and seek guidance on appropriate treatment options, which may include referrals to physiotherapists for pelvic-floor strengthening exercises, medication, or surgery. She also emphasizes the importance of launching more educational programs to raise awareness among women about urinary incontinence, while encouraging them to seek treatment instead of suffering in silence.
Conclusion
Urinary incontinence is a condition that can significantly impact a woman’s quality of life, leading to feelings of embarrassment, discomfort, stress, and depression. It is essential for women to break the silence and seek treatment, rather than suffering in silence. By doing so, they can regain control over their bodies and live a life free from the constant fear of accidents.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How common is urinary incontinence among women in Malaysia?
A: According to studies, 16-23% of women in Malaysia suffer from urinary leakage.
Q: What are the common causes of urinary incontinence?
A: Weakened or impaired pelvic floor muscles, pregnancy, childbirth, menopause, obesity, and chronic illnesses such as diabetes or lung disease.
Q: What are the symptoms of urinary incontinence?
A: Urine leakage, faecal leakage, pelvic organ prolapse (uterine prolapse), and sexual dysfunction.
Q: How can I seek treatment for urinary incontinence?
A: Consult a doctor and seek guidance on appropriate treatment options, which may include referrals to physiotherapists for pelvic-floor strengthening exercises, medication, or surgery.