Weight reduction appears to significantly improve urinary incontinence in overweight and obese women, according to researchers at the University of California, San Francisco.

Investigators conducted a study to evaluate the effect of weight loss on the severity of symptoms of urinary incontinence in overweight and obese women. The trial included women, average age 53, who were experiencing at least four incontinent episodes per week.

The participants were participated in a three-month weight reduction program, including a very low calorie liquid diet, exercise, and behavioral modification. The women were evaluated at the end of treatment and three months later.

Among the 35 women who were assessed, weekly incontinent episodes decreased 57 percent following weight loss and the improvement was maintained at three months.

"This study demonstrated a significant association between weight reduction and improved urinary incontinence," concluded the researchers. "Weight reduction should be considered as a non-surgical therapy for incontinence for overweight and obese women."

Other sources: American Urogynecologic Society