Prevalence of urinary incontinence among women in Turkey: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Abstract

Urinary incontinence (UI), defined as the involuntary leakage of urine, is a common condition that affects women's quality of life and overall health. UI becomes more frequent with age and is also observed during pregnancy and postpartum. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to determine the prevalence of UI among women. A literature search was conducted between December 2024 and February 2025 in Google Scholar, PubMed, Web of Science, Türkiye Citation Index, Ulakbim, and Turkish Medline. Risk of bias was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute checklist. Forty-five studies published between 2005 and 2025, including 41,038 participants, were analyzed. The pooled prevalence of UI among women aged 15 years and older was 36.7%. Prevalence estimates for stress, urgency, and mixed UI were 31.1%, 18.4%, and 27.5%. Definitions used influenced prevalence rates. Planning and delivering appropriate health services based on these findings can contribute to protecting and improving women's health. In Türkiye, it would be beneficial to develop a policy to raise awareness about urinary incontinence in women and to evaluate the condition. Interventions can be implemented nationwide in this way.