Authors:
- Nina Bašić-Marković – Srdoči Primary Healthcare Institution, Rijeka, Croatia; University of Rijeka, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Family Medicine, Rijeka, Croatia; Society of Teachers of General/Family Medicine
- Roberta Marković – Srdoči Primary Healthcare Institution, Rijeka, Croatia; University of Rijeka, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Family Medicine, Rijeka, Croatia; Society of Teachers of General/Family Medicine
- Branislava Popović – Specialist Family Medicine Practice Branislava Popović, Rijeka, Croatia; University of Rijeka, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Family Medicine, Rijeka, Croatia; Society of Teachers of General/Family Medicine
- Tina Zavidić – Istrian Health Centres, Pazin, Croatia; University of Rijeka, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Family Medicine, Rijeka, Croatia; Society of Teachers of General/Family Medicine
Article type:
Review
Abstract:
Urinary incontinence increases with age and is a significant health and social problem that has a negative impact on sex life. It includes disorders ranging from an occasional leakage of urine to a complete inability to retain it. Sexuality plays a significant role in different stages of a woman’s life. It should bring pleasure, fulfillment and satisfaction. Fear of leakage of urine during intercourse often causes withdrawal from sexual activity. Generally speaking, incontinence in women decreases the frequency of sexual relations, sexual desire and satisfaction with one’s body. In the elderly, biological, psychological and social changes affect sexuality, and are often intertwined. Problems with sexual dysfunction in menopause can be associated with significant personal problems, resulting in reduced self-esteem and self-respect, reduced life satisfaction and quality of partnership. Therefore, a fundamental part of care is to give women the opportunity to discuss sexual issues. There are different modalities in the treatment of urinary incontinence depending on the type of incontinence, and they include conservative methods (strengthening the pelvic muscles), lifestyle changes, pharmacological preparations and surgical treatment. Physicians should keep in mind that older adults are not asexual and that a decline in their sexual activity or desire and the onset of sexual problems may indicate poor health. Given the high prevalence of UI and sexual dysfunction, this problem should be addressed by means of a multidisciplinary approach which can include a family medicine doctor, a gynecologist, a urologist, a physiotherapist and a sexual psychotherapist
Keywords:
menopause, sexuality, urinary incontinence