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The Prevalence of Long-Term Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms Among Women Who Previously Experienced Postpartum Urinary Retention—A Cross Sectional Study

Y. Baruch, M. Barba, T. Melocchi, A. Cola, A. Inzoli, M. Frigerio

Journal of Clinical Medicine, 2025

242 participants · 3 citations

Abstract

Background: Postpartum urinary retention (PPUR) typically resolves within the first three days following delivery. However, in rare instances, it may persist beyond 72 h and, in some cases, extend for several weeks. The current study aimed to evaluate long-term sequelae in women who endured PPUR following vaginal delivery. Methods: Between January 2013 and December 2019, 362 women who experienced PPUR following delivery at our institution were identified and subsequently invited to complete the UDI-6 questionnaire that serves to assess lower urinary tract symptoms. The questionnaires were filled out and returned by 242 women (66.8%). Results: Participants who had no urinary complaints (145/242; 60%) were assigned to Group 1. Of the 97 women allocated to Group 2 (97/242; 40%), 96 reported only mild urinary symptoms, while just 1 individual scored above the threshold of 33.3, suggesting elevated urinary distress. Risk factors known to be associated with PPUR were equally distributed among the two groups. A predominance of Caucasians was noted in Group 2 (p = 0.012). Voiding dysfunction (question 5 of UDI-6), taken separately, was proclaimed by 15 women from Group 2 (15/97 = 15.5%). When these were compared to the rest of the cohort (n = 227), an association with hypothyroidism was recognized (p = 0.036). Well-established risk factors for PPUR, such as nulliparity and epidural analgesia, were observed less frequently among women with persistent voiding dysfunction (p = 0.045…

How strong is the evidence?

Evidence Hub reads this as a cohort study, done in people. Its evidence level is 3 of 5 (Moderate · trial / cohort / secondary analysis). Trials without a large randomized design, cohorts and secondary analyses give moderate evidence. Reported size: 242 participants or records.

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