Urinary incontinence is a major health problem in the United States and around the world. It affects 15 percent of women younger than 60, 25 percent of women older than 60, and up to 50 percent of all nursing home patients. Many women avoid social and sometimes sexual activities because of incontinence, which can lead to depression and a loss of self worth. Because of what they hear from family and friends, and what they see on TV, they use pads and diapers prematurely. Even when seeing their family doctor for an annual checkup, they rarely bring up their incontinence. Only about 50 percent of incontinence sufferers seek medical attention.

Government statistics show that the cost of untreated incontinence is around $11.2 billion annually for outpatients. About 50 percent of all sanitary napkins and pads purchased are used for the control of urinary leakage instead of menstrual flow. Recent estimates show that an average user of these products will spend around $1000-1500 per year on pads and diapers.

Incontinence is not an inevitable part of aging. Successful treatments are available. You should not let incontinence lower your quality of life. Although the subject may be embarrassing to discuss you must be willing to talk to your caregiver. Incontinence is a common, serious and treatable problem, and cost of not getting treatment is very high, not only financially, but also emotionally.

Richard Boesel M.D.
Co-director of the incontinence Lab at University Hospital
Member of the American Urogynecology Association