Prevalence and risk factors of anorectal dysfunction in women with urinary incontinence

Abstract

Purpose: To evaluate the prevalence and risk factors of anorectal dysfunction among women with urinary incontinence. Method: This cross-sectional study was conducted among women attending the urogynecology clinic. Women with symptoms of urinary incontinence were requested to complete a structured questionnaire. Results: Four hundred and thirteen women participated in the study and 43.8% had at least one anorectal symptom. The prevalence rates of anal incontinence, constipation, and difficult defecation were 8.0, 38.0, and 25.7%, respectively. The risk factors associated with anorectal dysfunction were age and number of parity. Conclusion: Anorectal dysfunction was prevalent among women with urinary incontinence; age and number of parity were the risk factors. All women with symptoms of urinary incontinence should be evaluated about anorectal symptoms. © 2009 Springer-Verlag.