A study published in the International Urogynecology Journal highlights the prevalence of various urinary symptoms in pregnant women during the third trimester and their impact on the quality of life (QoL).
A cross-sectional study conducted at the Diana Princess of Wales Hospital, Northern Lincolnshire, and Goole NHS Foundation Trust, Grimsby, UK, included 302 pregnant women in the third trimester. Self-reported data on urinary symptoms were collected using the International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire Female Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms questionnaire.
The most common urinary symptom during the third trimester was nocturia, reported by 97 per cent of women, followed by urgency of micturition (83%). Nocturia and urgency of micturition affected the QoL in 80 per cent and 75 per cent of women, respectively.
Bladder pain, nocturnal enuresis and straining during micturition were other bothersome urinary symptoms during the third trimester. The high prevalence of these conditions (47%, 9.9% and 18.2%, respectively) is a novel finding in this population.
The authors stated: "The high prevalence of urinary symptoms in pregnancy illuminates the experience of the general obstetric population and helps us to provide holistic care. Patient education on the prevalence of these symptoms and associated factors will help to establish essential lifestyle modifications such as the reduction of smoking, avoidance of irritants, and fluid and weight management."
