When we think of athletes, we imagine strength, endurance, and peak performance. But behind the scenes, many are silently battling a condition that is rarely discussed in the sports world: stress urinary incontinence (SUI). While it’s a topic often sidelined in conversations about athletic health, it’s more common than many realise, especially among high-impact athletes.
What Is Stress Urinary Incontinence?
Stress urinary incontinence involves the involuntary leakage of urine that occurs during physical exertion such as coughing, sneezing and laughing. It also relates to urinary incontinence occurring from physical activity such as running, jumping and lifting.
Why Athletes Are Prone to SUI
While urinary incontinence is commonly linked to aging or childbirth, athletes are far from immune—and some may actually be at greater risk. Studies show that those participating in high-impact sports (ie. gymnastics, running, football, and basketball) face a higher likelihood of developing urinary incontinence. Here's why:
Pelvic Floor Tightness
Pelvic Floor Weakness
Hormonal Fluctuations
Increased Intra-abdominal Pressure
Poor landing biomechanics
Previous Injury
What the Research Says
Recent studies have increasingly highlighted the prevalence and impact of stress urinary incontinence (SUI) in athletes, particularly among women.
20-40% of female athletes experience symptoms of SUI, with higher rates seen in those involved in high-impact or contact sports (Bø, Råheim, & Sykes, 2020).
45% of female athletes in high-impact sports, like gymnastics and running, experience some form of urinary incontinence (O'Connell, 2020).
50% of athletes with SUI never discuss the condition with a healthcare provider (Schaner, Rodriguez, & Thrasher, 2019).
22% of female athletes with SUI had withdrawn from a sport due to the condition, while 30% reported avoiding specific movements (like jumping, running, or lifting) that could trigger leaks.
15% of athletes admitted to altering their training routines to avoid exercises that might cause urinary leakage, further impacting their overall performance and progress (Schaner et al., 2019).
These statistics underscore the need for better education, early intervention, and a more open conversation about SUI in the athletic community. Addressing the issue can help athletes manage the condition effectively without it compromising their performance or love for their sport.
Management of SUI in Athletes:
Fortunately, there are many ways to prevent and manage stress urinary incontinence in athletes:
Education and Awareness
Pelvic Floor Muscle Training
Correct Breathing/Bracing Techniques
Appropriate Landing Mechanics
Vaginal Support Pessaries or Contiforms
Breaking the Stigma
One of the biggest hurdles for athletes dealing with SUI is the stigma surrounding incontinence. Many athletes feel embarrassed to speak up, fearing judgment or the perception that they’re not “tough” enough to handle their sport. This silence only perpetuates the struggle, making it harder for athletes to seek help or even acknowledge the problem.
However, increasing awareness through research, education, and open conversations is key to breaking this stigma. The more athletes and coaches understand that urinary incontinence is a common, treatable issue, the easier it will be for athletes to get the support they need.
Please reach out to a Women’s and Pelvic Health Physiotherapist if you are an athlete who is experiencing stress urinary incontinence.
References:
Bø, K., Råheim, M., & Sykes, K. (2020). Prevalence and risk factors for urinary incontinence in female athletes. The International Urogynecology Journal, 31(6), 1161-1167. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00192-020-04272-4
O'Connell, R. (2020). Impact of high-intensity sports on stress urinary incontinence. Sports Health, 12(5), 478-484. https://doi.org/10.1177/1941738120919920
Schaner, P. E., Rodriguez, D. S., & Thrasher, A. A. (2019). Prevalence and impact of urinary incontinence in female athletes. The Journal of Urology, 201(3), 656-661. https://doi.org/10.1097/JU.0000000000000211
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