Urinary incontinence in younger women.

Urinary incontinence (UI) in younger adult (30 to 59 years) women is an underdiagnosed and undertreated problem, with social and economic ramifications. This article highlights the risk factors for UI brought about by life choices, challenges, and changes: onset of sexual activity, career choices, travel, pregnancy, childbirth, and menopause. Suggestions are made concerning possible preventative strategies and identifying the need for research. Included are hard-to-assemble normal data and experienced-based strategies used in the evaluation process, which are useful to the generalist NP and the continence specialist.