The relationship between urinary incontinence and anthropometric indices in obese women

Abstract

Introduction: Urinary Incontinence (UI) is a common problem in obese women affected by different parameters such as weight, Body Mass Index (BMI), type of delivery, etc. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between the lumbar lordosis, anthropometric characteristics, and the incidence of urinary incontinence in obese women. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted on 193 obese women (BMI>30 kg/m2) with and without UI. Anthropometric characteristics and lordosis angle were measured in participants, and then they were asked to fill out demographic information and urinary incontinence questionnaires. The obtained data were analyzed by SPSS V. 23 using statistical tests, including the Independent t test, Spearman correlation, and logistic regression. Results: Women who suffered from UI had a lower lumbar lordosis angle, were younger, and shorter, with a higher number of natural deliveries. Discussion: Based on the findings of this study, a direct relationship exists between natural delivery and UI. However, an indirect relationship is observed between UI and age, lumbar lordosis angle, and height. Because of the effect of lumbar lordosis on the incidence of urinary incontinence in obese people, spine alignment, and changes in abdominal biomechanical parameters might also have an impact on UI.