ABSTRACT

Urinary incontinence is classified according to pathophysiological concepts rather than symptomatology, but the following definitions of symptoms are commonly used.

Urinary incontinence is defined as the involuntary loss of urine that is objectively demonstrable and is a social or hygienic problem. It is increasingly prevalent as the ageing population expands. It affects an individual’s physical, psychological and social well-being and is associated with a significant reduction in quality of life. The prevalence increases with age, with approximately 5 per cent of women between 15 and 44 years of age being affected, rising to 10 per cent of those aged between 45 and 64 years, and approximately 20 per cent of those older than 65 years. It is even higher in women who are institutionalized and may affect up to 40 per cent of those in residential nursing homes.