Female Athletes & Incontinence

"Participation in regular athletics appears to be a significant risk factor for having Urinary Stress Incontinence," claims an article published in the most recent edition of the American Physical Therapy Association's Section On Women's Health. The study conducted at Duke University compared pelvic floor activity (not necessarily strength) and frequency of incontinence in collegiate women athletes vs non-athletes. The study concluded that there was no difference in in pelvic floor activity but there was a significant difference in frequency of incontinent episodes with the collegiate women athletes having more SUI episodes than non-athletes. The author suggested that these findings may indicate that high physical activity and athletics may be a significant risk factor to having SUI. Current risk factors include vaginal delivery, obesity, age, smoking, weak pelvic floor muscles, menopause and pelvic surgery.

Practically speaking, this means that if women are to be physically active, they need to actively work on strengtheing the pelvic floor muscles by performing Kegels. Pelvic floor strength is measured not only by intensity of contraction, but also endurance of the contraction. Pelvic floor muscles should be tightened by squeezing up and in WITHOUT holding your breath. It is important to alternate "quick flicks" with longer, 5 -10 second holds. Additionally, remember to integrate Kegels into your sport/activity by squeezing prior to lifting, kicking, jumping, etc.