A recent study has highlighted that women weightlifters are three times more likely to suffer from urinary incontinence compared to other women, drawing attention to a significant yet often overlooked issue in the world of strength sports.
The rise of women in weightlifting has been notable, with nearly half of USA Weightlifting’s members now identifying as female. Despite this growth, a 2018 study on female powerlifters aged 18 to 35 revealed that a staggering 74.5% of them experienced urinary incontinence during their training sessions. This condition occurs when women involuntarily leak urine while lifting heavy weights, often due to pressure on the bladder during intense physical exertion.
Despite the high prevalence, the issue remains largely underreported. The same study found that only 7% of those affected spoke to their doctors about it. Many women are hesitant to bring it up due to the stigma and embarrassment associated with incontinence, especially in a competitive sports environment where strength and control are emphasized. This sense of shame leads many women to keep their struggles private, attempting to “rock on” and continue their training without seeking help.
Experts are now urging for more open discussions about the condition and better support for women in strength sports. While urinary incontinence is common, it is often manageable with medical intervention, yet many women continue to suffer in silence, fearing judgment from their peers.
Gurdian