Urinary stress incontinence among obese women: Review of pathophysiology therapy

Obesity is a common condition among women in developed countries and has a major impact on stress urinary incontinence. Women suffering from obesity m anifest increased intra-abdominal pressures, which adversely stress the pel vic floor and may contribute to the development of urinary incontinence. in addition, obesity may affect the neuromuscular function of the genitourina ry tract, thereby also contributing to incontinence. Accordingly, thorough evaluation of obese women must be performed prior to the institution of tre atment. Weight loss may relieve urinary incontinence, but definitive therap y via operative procedures is effective even in obese patients and should b e recommended with confidence.