Can Being Overweight Cause Incontinence?

More than half of the world’s population is overweight, and it is estimated that by 2030, more people will die from obesity-related diseases than from malnutrition. But what does this mean for our bladders?

The Link Between Obesity and Urinary Incontinence

Scientists have long noticed a connection between obesity and urinary incontinence (UI), which is defined as any unintentional or uncontrolled leakage of urine. Studies have shown that women with higher BMI have more frequent UI episodes compared to those with lower body weight. A new study reveals that these two factors are indeed linked and that weight gain itself may even cause UI.

Weight as a Controllable Risk Factor for UI

The study, conducted by researchers from Kaiser Permanente in California, analysed data from 188,955 women with no history of incontinence or bowel issues. The women were regularly asked about their weight, BMI, and symptoms of urinary incontinence during annual checkups. The results showed that women who gained significant amounts of weight over time were more likely to experience UI, with a 30 per cent increase in risk for every 5 kg gained.

While about 1 in 10 women were underweight, more than half were overweight. This study highlights how weight gain can not only increase the likelihood of developing UI but also worsen its frequency and severity.

Lead author Dr Allison Green-Lilyquist explained:

“We found that although the proportion of women who had UI was similar in different BMI categories, the risk of incontinence varied according to body weight. Obese women who gained significant amounts of weight over time had significantly higher risks for incontinence than their normal-weight counterparts.”

Obesity and Other Health Risks

This study is the first to establish a direct relationship between weight and UI, but obesity is already known to increase the risk of other health conditions such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, type 2 diabetes, and certain types of cancer.

With 1 in 4 women in Western countries now classified as obese, and the CDC predicting that obesity-related deaths will outpace those from malnutrition by 2030, addressing weight gain has never been more important.

The Emotional Toll of Incontinence

One of the challenges in managing UI is that many people, especially those who are overweight or obese, feel too embarrassed to discuss their symptoms with their healthcare provider. Despite the fact that weight is a controllable risk factor for UI, many women suffer in silence, particularly after menopause when hormone changes may trigger their first experiences of urinary incontinence.

Dr Green-Lilyquist points out that:

“More than 70 per cent of women with UI do not seek treatment, highlighting the importance of identifying modifiable risk factors that can help prevent and manage UI.”

Weight Loss and Improved Incontinence Symptoms

While weight gain can exacerbate UI symptoms, there is encouraging evidence that losing weight can help improve bladder control. A study from The University of Michigan found that patients who underwent bariatric surgery experienced significant reductions in UI symptoms within a year following surgery, even if they had not been previously classified as obese.

Tips to Manage UI While Losing Weight

If you are currently managing symptoms of UI while working towards weight loss, here are a few strategies that may help:

• Pause during symptoms: If you experience UI symptoms, stop and wait until they pass before continuing your activities. Don’t ignore them or try to push through.
• Empty your bladder before bed: This can help reduce the likelihood of experiencing leakage during sleep.
• Use a footstool: When using the bathroom, a footstool can help you stand up more easily after relieving yourself.
• Try absorbent products: Consider using panty liners, specially designed underwear, or other products that help absorb wetness and keep you comfortable during the day.

Consider Weight Loss as a Treatment for UI

We hope this research encourages women with UI and their healthcare providers to take weight loss seriously as a viable treatment for incontinence. By managing weight, many women can regain control over their bladder and enjoy a better quality of life.

Feel free to explore our full range of incontinence solutions here!

Bladder and bowel incontinence may be caused by conditions which can be treated medically. Please consult your physician for medical advice and guidance.