OB-GYN Montgomery County Dr. Rania Ibrahim finds that incontinence is a common problem in women but unfortunately, for some it also brings depression and other mental health issues. Recent studies indicate that middle-aged women are more likely to suffer depression from a widespread medical problem that they find too embarrassing to talk about: urinary incontinence.
However, help is available for women if they seek medical advice. In a study of the experiences of women who suffer from urinary incontinence, it was revealed that middle-aged women between the ages of 43 and 65 who deal with incontinence were more likely to be depressed than older women between the ages of 65 and 89.
Your OB-GYN Montgomery County also finds that the younger women’s self esteem is often hit harder by urinary incontinence, while older women tend to be more accepting of their condition. Women who live with both incontinence and depression scored lower in all areas of their quality of life because of the impact of incontinence on their physical wellbeing.
Key concerns for younger women affected by urinary incontinence are family, sexual relationships and activities. The most common difficulties women express about their incontinence are things like not being able to continue their physical activities, and these are serious issues for women who are still in the prime of their lives.
According to OB-GYN Montgomery County, urinary incontinence affects approximately 35% of the female population. The main cause in women is pregnancy, with the number of children they have elevating their chances of becoming incontinent. Studies show that 20% of the incontinent population suffers from depression, and this is something that we need to better understand.
Sufferers of incontinence are often embarrassed and reluctant to get help, but attitudes are slowly changing. It is very important for them to seek professional advice about their condition. In some cases, urinary incontinence can be cured with an operation, which can literally be a life-changing operation for many women.
Ultimately, your OB-GYN Montgomery County Dr. Rania Ibrahim hopes that research helps to raise awareness in the community about both the mental and physical issues associated with incontinence.
We know it’s embarrassing, but if you want to discuss it, your life really can change. Why not call the office today to schedule a confidential consultation? We’re here to help.