Most people with bladder problems, leakage, or incontinence can't even talk about it.  Yet it may be affecting their sex lives and their social lives.  In a recent nationwide survey, more than one third [37%] of sexually active adults with bladder control problems report that their sex lives are directly, and adversely, affected by their condition. 

These adults reported at least one symptom associated with overactive bladder or "OAB": frequent urination, sudden overwhelming urges to urinate, or occasional involuntary loss of urine.  Of the 55 percent of respondents who reported being sexually active, nearly half said that their overactive bladder symptoms inhibited their enjoyment of sex, often affecting their relationship with their partner.

Interestingly, nearly half of the unmarried survey respondents identified bladder problems as a reason they are not currently involved in a relationship.  Of the 45 percent of respondents who indicated that they are not sexually active, more than one-third cited their overactive bladder symptoms as a reason why.             

Ironically, while finding a solution to sexually related issues is often complex,  those with bladder control problems should know that many of their answers are only as far away as their physician.

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[This Harris Interactive study, which was supported by an educational grant from Pharmacia Corporation, was conducted on the Overactive Bladder Clinic on CVS.com during February and March 2001, and with respondents drawn from the Harris Interactive Online Panel.  The survey polled more than 300 women and men ages 18 and older who suffered from at least one symptom associated with overactive bladder.]

Created: 7/13/2001  -  Donnica Moore, M.D.