Effectiveness of a Kegel protocol on urinary incontinence in female weightlifters

Objectives: The aim of this study was to evaluate the incidence and associated factors of urinary incontinence in women who participate in weightlifting sports. Material and method: The final sample included 22 female athletes aged 18–27. Participants were divided into a control group (n = 6) and two intervention groups based on training frequency: IG1 (≥4 days/week, n = 8) and IG2 (<4 days/week, n = 8). The intervention, based on Kegel exercises performed five times weekly for six weeks. UI impact was assessed pre and post intervention using the ICIQ-LUTSqol questionnaire. Results: A high prevalence of urinary incontinence (UI) was reported (63.6%), especially during sports activity. In the intervention groups, no statistically significant differences were observed in ICIQ-LUTSqol scores between groups (P = 0.65) or over time (P = 0.47), nor in the group-by-time interaction (P = 0.15). However, a non-significant trend suggested a reduction in ICIQ-LUTSqol scores in IG2 post-intervention. However, a non significant trend suggested a reduction in ICIQ-LUTSqol scores in IG2 post-intervention, although eta 2 was low. Conclusions: The six-week Kegel intervention had limited impact on UI symptoms among these young female athletes, suggesting that longer interventions and consideration of additional factors may be necessary to achieve significant UI reduction in this population.