A clinical trial is under way at Loyola University Health System to evaluate the impact of urge urinary incontinence (UUI) on a couple's relationship and sex life.
"Urinary incontinence is a socially debilitating disease that affects thousands of women," said Elizabeth Mueller MD, director, Division of Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery, LUHS. "These women often experience anxiety about physical intimacy due to fear of an accident during sex. This apprehension may limit physical intimacy and lead to dissatisfaction in a relationship."
Few studies have examined the role of urinary incontinence on the dynamics of an intimate relationship and none have evaluated the impact of successful treatment. Loyola researchers will determine if couples have lower levels of relationship satisfaction and sexual function when the female partner has UUI and if successfully treating this issue will improve these aspects of the relationship.
This study also will evaluate which aspects of relationships are most affected by UUI. Loyola researchers believe that men tend to identify changes in sexual intimacy based on intercourse frequency, whereas women typically identify changes with other interactions such as handholding and communication.
"Chronic illness places emotional, physical and financial burdens on relationships," said Linda Brubaker, MD, dean, Loyola University Chicago Stritch School of Medicine. "This trial will allow us to better understand the social and emotional impact that urinary incontinence has on the well-being of an intimate relationship and the outcome when we treat these patients."
Loyola researchers are looking to recruit couples for this study. Study participants will complete a series of questionnaires, which researchers will evaluate before and after treatment.
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