Urinary Incontinence in Postpartum Women: Severity, Associated Factors, and Impact on Quality of Life - A Prospective Longitudinal Study

Abstract

Objectives: To determine the prevalence, severity, and progression of postpartum urinary incontinence at delivery, 6 weeks, and 3 months postpartum, and to assess its impact on quality of life and associated risk factors among women undergoing vaginal delivery.

Methodology: The prospective longitudinal cohort study was conducted in the Gynae C Unit of Ayub Teaching Hospital, Abbottabad, from 1st January 2025 to 31st October 2025, recruiting 400 postpartum participants aged 22 to 40 years with single pregnancies and delivered vaginally after informed consent.

Results: A non-probability sampling technique was applied for the collection of data using a pre-designed, validated questionnaire on the day of delivery, 6 weeks postnatal, and follow-up after 3 months postpartum through telephonic conversation. The clinical data were correlated with urodynamics to confirm UI of the participants. Mean age 29.8 ± 4.6 years, and 50% reported urinary leakage, while around 45% experienced pain in the urinary tract. 40% showed small urinary leakage, and 35% showed difficulty in bladder emptying. The effect of UI was 65% on the physical activities of the postpartum females and 70% effect the emotional behaviour.

Conclusion: UI is a very prevalent disorder among urinary tract diseases suffered by females after vaginal delivery in their 6 months of postpartum phase. It significantly impairs the physical, emotional, and social well-being of the sufferer.