Urinary incontinence

Question

CF women and CF girls present, with a higher frequency than in the general population, urinary incontinence during exercise. Why? What can we do? Are any cases of urinary incontinence reported among CF young girls? Thank you in advance for your response on this subject little discussed.

Answer

Dear questioner,

Indeed, urinary incontinence is more frequent and troublesome for CF patients: leaking occurs during efforts or laugh like in other people, but when coughing or sneezing, which are amplified in times of exacerbation and decline of pulmonary condition.

This is explained by the fact that the efforts, cough etc ..., especially when intensive, cause significant and repeated pressure on the muscles that help keep urine in the bladder (the pelvic floor). The mechanism is the same as when you press too hard on a more or less full bladder ...

Regarding the frequency of urinary incontinence, it is difficult to assess because it varies widely from study to study. On average, it is estimated that about one in four women with CF (including teenagers) suffers from regular urine loss. Based on studies, the incidence reported in young CF girls (11-18 years) varied between 20 and 50%. Urinary incontinence can also affect men, but it is much rarer.

In all cases, it is essential to counteract this, or, if possible, to prevent it. The pelvic floor muscles can be strengthened and toned (rehabilitation of the perineum) of course with the help of competent professionals (physiotherapists, midwives ...) that will teach you various exercises.

In the first line, I can strongly encourage you to discuss it with the staff of the CF Center: maybe themselves could bring adequate care, and if necessary, they can definitely guide you to other professionals.

Hope to have helped.
Sincerely
Laetitia Guéganton

01.08.2015