Frequency of overactive urinary bladder in females and assessment of gynaecological and obstetrical risk factors for its worsening

ABSTRACT

To estimate frequency of overactive urinary bladder in females and to assess gynaecological and obstetrical risk factors worsening the overactive bladder compromising quality of life. Cross- sectional survey. Liaquat National Hospital and Medical College Karachi, from August to November 2009. Females visiting different outpatient departments for medical and non-medical reasons were interviewed after informed verbal consent. They filled-up pre-designed questionnaire V-8 validated by ICS for primary screening of overactive bladder [OAB] in population. Any related obstetrical and gynaecological condition were also recorded. Five hundred and ten women were interviewed. The estimated frequency of OAB was 23.28% [n=144]. Age related changes were significant as high scores of OAB found in multiparous women and with advancing age. It was also related to history of vaginal prolapse, sexual activity and obesity. Overactive bladder adversely affected quality of life, but very few women sought treatment for it. A quarter of women interviewed reported OAB which affected their daily routines but no treatment was taken