The effect of a vaginal device on urinary leakage and quality of life of women with stress urinary incontinence

The aim of this study was to assess the effect of a vaginal device (Continence Guard) on urine leakage and its impact on quality of life (QoL). Fifty-five women participated in a three month study using the Continence Guard. QoL was assessed by an incontinence specific questionnaire (IIQ), two incontinence specific questions and the generic SF-36 health questionnaire. A total of 41 (74.5%) women completed the study. Use of the vaginal device was associated with subjective cure in 11 women (27%) and improvement in 27 (66%). The mean 24-hour pad test leakage decreased significantly. QoL measured by the IIQ and the two incontinence specific questions showed highly significant improvements. The SF-36 questionnaire showed no significant changes. In conclusion treatment with the Continence Guard significantly decreases leakage and improves QoL in women with the symptom of urinary stress incontinence. The SF-36 questionnaire was not sensitive enough to detect alterations in QoL in patients with stress urinary incontinence.