The role of obesity on urinary incontinence and anal incontinence in women: a review

Obesity prevalence is increasing worldwide, with significant healthcare implications. We searched PubMed/MEDLINE, Embase and the Cochrane Library for articles registered until June 2020 to explore the relationship between obesity and urinary (UI) and anal incontinence (AI). Obesity is associated with low‐grade, systemic inflammation and proinflammatory cytokine release, producing reactive oxygen species and oxidative stress. This alters collagen metabolism and, in combination with increased intra‐abdominal pressure, contributes to the development of UI. Whereas in AI, stool consistency may be a factor. Weight loss can reduce UI and should be a management focus; however, the effect of weight loss on AI is less clear.