OBJECTIVE: To assess the prevalence of urinary incontinence (UI) in a group of 
female athletes and to explore its impact on their lives.
METHODS: In total, 106 female athletics, basketball, and indoor football 
athletes were recruited. Data were collected through a questionnaire and a focus 
group and analyzed via Pearson's χ(2) test, 2-way analysis of variance, and 
thematic analysis.
RESULTS: Urinary incontinence was experienced by 41.5% of the athletes. Its 
prevalence across the 3 types of sport was similar and was not affected by age. 
However, athletes who experienced UI had a lower body weight (P = 0.011) and a 
lower body mass index (P = 0.035). Most (95.5%) athletes had never discussed 
their condition with a health professional. In the focus group, all athletes 
described preventive urination to avoid urine leakage. It was mentioned that UI 
affected their performance and made them feel uncomfortable and frustrated.
CONCLUSION: Urinary incontinence is a prevalent condition among athletes that is 
not openly discussed. However, it causes regular changes in their physical 
performance and daily life. More research is needed to increase awareness of UI 
and to design interventions.