There are a variety of factors and influences, both internal and external, that may impact an individual’s public toileting experience and may ultimately have repercussions for bladder health. This study sought to identify predominant constructs underlying a women’s attitude towards using restrooms at work, at school, and in public in order to develop a conceptual model incorporating these themes. We performed a secondary analysis of a cross-sectional, survey-based study that included open-ended questions about limitations to restroom use using a mixed-methods approach. Qualitative data coding and analysis was performed on 12,583 quotes and, using an iterative inductive-deductive approach, was used to construct the conceptual framework. Our conceptual framework reveals a complicated interplay of personal contexts, situational influences, and behavioral strategies used by women to manage their bladder and bowel habits away from home. These findings can inform future research and public policy related to bladder health awareness related to toilet access in the workplace and in public.
Purpose of Review
This review aims to discuss the current literature addressing associations between physical activity and stress urinary incontinence in women.
Recent Findings
Multiple cross-sectional studies utilize survey questionnaires to determine prevalence of stress urinary incontinence, impact of various types and intensities of physical activity on stress urinary incontinence, and explain differences in urinary symptoms among active women.
Summary
Although there is evidence for increased rates of stress incontinence among women who are physically active, pathophysiology is not fully understood and there is a need for additional research exploring changes to the pelvic floor during exercise. Future research focusing on the mechanism in which physical activity contributes to urinary symptoms can guide development of primary preventions for stress urinary incontinence.
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