Body Image and Depression in Women with Urinary Incontinence

Kim, Ae Kyung

Abstract

This study was done to determine the correlation between body image and depression among women with urinary incontinence. The ultimate goal was to contribute to the planning of nursing intervention towark the establishment of a positive body image and the prevention of depression in women with urinary incontinence. The data were collected from Jan. 10 to May. 30, 1998 from 98 adult women, who lived in Cheonan City, Korea. The insturments were Hendrickson's Stress Incontinence Scale, physical self-image items out of Fitts' Tennessee self concept Scale, Osgood's Semantic Differential Scale, and Zung's self-rating Depression Scale. The data were analyzed using the SAS computerized program and include percentage, t-test, ANOVA, and the Pearson correlation coefficient. The results of this study are summarized as follows, 1. It was reported that 61.2% of the subjects experienced urinary incontinence. The level of body image perceived by urinary incontinent women had a mean of 58.56(SD=7.02) ; women with urinary incontinence showed mild depression. 2. The level of depression and body image was not significantly different between the incontinent or continent. There were significant differences in depression levels according to the severity of urinary incontinence of the subjects. 3. Severity of urinary incontinence and body image was negatively correlated (r=-0.300, p<0.01) ; correlation between depression and body image was negative (r=-0.578, p<0.01). 4. There are significant differences in body image according to use of medication, itching, and sensitivity of the vagina. 5. There are significant differences in depression with discharges from the vagina, itching, and sensitivity of the vagina. In conclusion, as urinary incontinence in women proved mildly depressive, health care providers need to develop and provide nursing intervention for the urinary incontinent with the goal of helping clients establish a positive body image and prevent depression.