Screening for incontinence in adult women is a critical aspect of healthcare that is often overlooked. Despite recommendations from global societies, the majority of women do not receive screenings for this treatable disorder. The healthcare system’s structure, which prioritizes other screenings and treatments, along with long wait times and limited access to care, contribute to this issue. However, with a staggering 62% of adult women in the U.S. experiencing bladder and/or bowel leaks, it is essential to improve screening and treatment for incontinence.
Untreated incontinence can have severe consequences on women’s physical, emotional, social, and financial well-being. Many women suffer in silence due to shame and stigma surrounding the condition. It is crucial to raise awareness and make changes at various levels to ensure that more women receive the care they need.
Incontinence is not an inevitable part of aging, and effective treatments, such as pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT), exist. Routine screening and early intervention can prevent the progression of the condition and improve women’s quality of life. Research shows that living with incontinence can have a significant impact on mental health, relationships, and physical activity levels. It is also a major risk factor for falls, hospitalization, disability, and caregiver burden among older women.
To address the lack of screening for incontinence, changes are needed at the governmental, professional, and insurance levels. Core quality measures should include incontinence screening to prioritize its detection and treatment. The diagnostic pathway for incontinence should be simplified to make it more accessible for primary care providers. Additionally, insurers should consider covering pelvic floor rehabilitation to prevent long-term complications associated with incontinence.
Women must also be empowered to advocate for their pelvic floor health and seek treatment without fear or shame. By normalizing discussions around incontinence and providing access to effective treatments, we can improve the lives of millions of women who are affected by this condition. It is time for the healthcare system to prioritize women’s pelvic floor health and make necessary changes to ensure better outcomes for all.
