Lack of psychological resilience: an important correlate for urinary incontinence

Our study evaluated medical conditions, level of physical functioning, and psychological health as correlates of urinary continence (UI) for four different age groups of women. Survey questions from the 1996 MIDUS survey were used in three domains of health: medical conditions, physical functioning, and psychological health. Mean questionnaire scores or prevalence percentages for individual and total medical conditions, physical functioning, and psychological health were computed. Two-sample independent t tests or chi-square tests were used to compare women with UI to those without. Prevalence of UI was as follows: 25–39 years: 13.3%, 40–49 years: 24.0%, 50–59 years: 32.7%, and 60–74 years: 32.8%. Lower psychological resilience scores were significantly associated with UI in all age groups. Significant correlates (p < 0.02) for women 25–39 years were hysterectomy, weak core muscles, and lack of psychological resilience. In older women, more chronic conditions and parity were significantly (p < 0.01) associated with UI. Although each age group had specific medical associations with UI, lack of resilience and poor core muscle strength are particularly correlated with UI in young women.