Knowledge, Attitudes, and Help Seeking Behavior Regarding Urinary Incontinence Among Women at Abbo’s Fistula Center, Khartoum: A Cross Sectional Study

Yasmeen  Omer

Abstract

 https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.20285137 

Urinary incontinence (UI) is a common and disabling condition that is often underreported because of stigma, misconceptions, and limited awareness, particularly among women living with obstetric fistula. This study assessed knowledge, attitudes, and barriers to seeking care for UI among women attending Abbo’s Fistula Center in Khartoum, Sudan. A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 69 women with obstetric fistula between January and March 2021. Data were collected through face-to-face interviews using a structured questionnaire adapted from the International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire. The tool assessed sociodemographic characteristics, awareness of UI, attitudes toward the condition, help-seeking behavior, and use of pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT). The mean age of participants was 32.5 ± 8.9 years, and mean parity was 3.4 ± 2.1. Only 45% showed a positive attitude toward seeking medical care, while 55% had not sought care. Reported barriers included symptom normalization (41%), social stigma (26%), treatment cost (25%), and belief in spontaneous resolution (20%). UI had marked psychosocial effects, including low self-esteem, restricted physical activity, prayer difficulties, sleep disturbance, and constant concern about odor. Most participants had never practiced PFMT, and awareness was generally limited. Higher education was associated with better awareness and attitudes. These findings highlight the need for culturally sensitive education, stigma reduction, and integrated supportive services to improve early care-seeking and quality of life overall.