Virtual Reality for Urinary Incontinence in Women

Use of Virtual Reality in the Treatment of Various Types of Urinary Incontinence in Women

This assessor-blinded, non-randomized, parallel-group controlled study evaluated whether adding immersive virtual reality to pelvic floor muscle electrostimulation with electromyographic biofeedback improved incontinence-related quality of life in postmenopausal women with urinary incontinence. Participants received electrostimulation with EMG biofeedback alone or the same intervention preceded by a 20-minute immersive VR session.

Urinary incontinence is a common condition among women and may adversely affect quality of life, psychological well-being, and social functioning. Conservative management may include pelvic floor muscle training, neuromuscular electrical stimulation, and electromyographic biofeedback. Virtual reality may be used as an adjunctive intervention intended to promote relaxation and engagement during rehabilitation; however, evidence regarding its use in women with urinary incontinence remains limited.

This study investigated immersive virtual reality as an adjunct to pelvic floor electrostimulation and electromyographic biofeedback in women with urinary incontinence. The VR intervention was intended to support relaxation and engagement during rehabilitation. It was delivered as a separate session immediately before electrostimulation and EMG biofeedback and included a gradually evolving garden environment, mandala-painting tasks, and guided breathing exercises. The VR system was not technically integrated with the EMG biofeedback device and did not provide real-time visualization of pelvic floor muscle activity.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Women aged 50-80 years, who are at least 12 months post-menopausal,
• Diagnosed with urinary incontinence of grade I or II according to the Stamey classification,
• No contraindications to participation (e.g., acute urinary tract infections, severe neurological disorders),
• Provision of written informed consent to participate in the research experiment.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Urinary incontinence of grade III or higher,
• Presence of significant neurological conditions affecting bladder control,
• Participation in other therapeutic interventions that could interfere with study outcomes,
• Pregnancy,
• Refusal or inability to provide informed consent.