Disordered Eating and Incontinence: There is a link.

A new study from the University of Jyväskylä, Finland published on December 10, 2024, has revealed a strong link between eating behaviours and pelvic floor disorders in middle-aged women. The research found that diets high in processed and fast foods significantly increased the risk of stress urinary incontinence and urgency urinary incontinence. Conversely, a diet rich in fruit and high-quality nutrients reduced this risk.

The Connection Between Eating Habits and Pelvic Floor Disorders

Pelvic floor disorders, including urinary incontinence, faecal incontinence, and constipation, become increasingly common as women approach menopause. As oestrogen levels decline, natural ageing, reproductive history, and factors that increase intra-abdominal pressure—such as obesity or chronic constipation—can weaken the pelvic floor. However, this latest study highlights that dietary habits and disordered eating may also play a significant role in the onset of these issues.

Mari Kuutti report author and doctoral researcher from the Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences at the University of Jyväskylä, explains:

"We found that women who reported disordered eating were more likely to experience symptoms of pelvic floor disorders than those with normal eating habits."

Disordered eating includes patterns of overeating, restrictive eating, or cycles of both. These behaviours can contribute to poor gut health, bloating, irregular bowel movements, and increased intra-abdominal pressure—factors that put excessive strain on the pelvic floor and may lead to prolapse over time.

How Diet Impacts Incontinence, Constipation, and Prolapse Risk

The study examined the impact of specific dietary choices on pelvic floor health. Key findings included:

• Highly processed foods and fast food were linked to a higher risk of stress urinary incontinence and urgency incontinence.

• Poor diet quality was associated with increased symptoms of pelvic floor disorders, including constipation and faecal incontinence.

• Higher fruit consumption and a nutrient-dense diet were found to reduce the risk of stress urinary incontinence.

With over half of the study's participants experiencing symptoms of pelvic floor dysfunction, the research underscores the importance of diet in maintaining pelvic health. Chronic constipation, for instance, can significantly contribute to weakened pelvic muscles due to repeated straining, increasing the likelihood of pelvic organ prolapse.

Preventative Measures: Why a Healthy Diet Matters

Given the strong association between diet and pelvic floor symptoms, healthcare providers should assess eating habits in women at risk of urinary incontinence, faecal incontinence, and prolapse. Adopting a diet that supports gut health and reduces intra-abdominal pressure may help prevent or manage these conditions.

For women experiencing leaks, constipation, or signs of pelvic floor weakness, a holistic approach—including dietary improvements, hydration, and pelvic floor exercises—can be key to reducing symptoms and maintaining long-term pelvic health.

Study Details

This research was part of the ERMA study, involving over 1,000 women aged 47–55 from the Jyväskylä region. Participants self-reported their eating behaviours along with demographic, physical, and gynaecological factors such as body mass index, menopause status, and hysterectomy history.

Source: University of Jyväskylä
Journal Reference: Kuutti, M. A., et al. (2024). Association of eating behaviour with symptoms of pelvic floor disorders in middle-aged women: An observational study. Women's Health. doi.org/10.1177/17455057241305075.