Last update:
15-Sep-2021

Diabetes mellitus (DM) consists of a group of metabolic disorders characterized by hyperglycemia. It is often associated with damage, dysfunction and insufficiency of various organs. Although DM has been identified as a strong predisposing factor for urinary incontinence, little is known about the mechanisms by which incontinence occurs. Review of the international literature provides information on the pathophysiological pathways that may mediate incontinence in women. Studies in women with type 2 DM (DM2) show that microvascular complications are associated with symptoms of effort incontinence (EI), urge incontinence (UI) and nocturia. Factors such as old age, increased body weight and body mass index (BMI), use of anxiolytics, a history of previous pregnancies and, most importantly, having undergone cesarean section, are associated with the onset and increased intensity of symptoms of EI, UI and nocturia. Regular, diligent urological examination is recommended for people with DM2, as these symptoms interfere with everyday living and reduce their quality of life. An important parameter is the psychological burden of these women, including their feelings of shame, or fear of stigma, that make them conceal their symptoms and, as a result, not receive appropriate care.

Key words: Diabetes mellitus, Hyperactive urinary bladder, Nocturia, Urinary incontinence.