Half of Women Over 50 Experience Incontinence, but Most Haven't Talked to a Doctor

The National Poll on Healthy Aging , which included 1,027 women between 50 and 80, found 43 percent of women in their 50s and early 60s said they had experienced urinary incontinence, as had 51 percent of those 65 and older, reports EurekAlert . However, 66 percent had not spoken to a doctor about it, and just 38 percent noted they perform exercises to strengthen the muscles that can help retain urine. Forty-one percent called urinary leakage a major problem or somewhat of a problem, while 33 percent of those with incontinence experienced an episode almost every day. Nearly 50 percent were concerned that the problem would worsen with age. The results suggest more doctors should routinely ask older women about incontinence issues they might be having. Among women who had followed coping strategies on their own, 59 percent said they had bought special pads or undergarments, 16 percent had reduced fluid intake, and 15 percent had changed what they wore to conceal accidents. "Urinary incontinence is a common condition that may not be routinely screened for in primary care, yet it can impact a woman's quality of life and health, and is usually treatable," says Carolyn Swenson at the University of Michigan Institute for Healthcare Policy and Innovation. "It's not an inevitable part of aging and shouldn't be overlooked."