Clinical Profile of Women with Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms Visiting Kathmandu Model Hospital

Abstract

Background: Lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) are common among women and can significantly impair quality of life. Despite their high prevalence, LUTS often remain under-recognized and under-treated, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. This study aimed to determine the prevalence, severity, and associated factors of LUTS among women attending a tertiary care hospital in Kathmandu, Nepal.
Methods: A hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted from September 2025 to December 2025 at Kathmandu Model Hospital. A total of 385 women were assessed for any lower urinary tract symptoms were using a validated Bristol Female Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms questionnaire translated into Nepali. Symptoms were categorized into no/minimal, moderate, and severe LUTS based on total scores. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 25, and associations were assessed using the chi-square test, with statistical significance set at p < 0.05.
Results: Among 385 participants mild, moderate, and severe LUTS were present in 40.7%(157), 27.0%(104), and 10.3%(40) of women, respectively. Storage symptoms, particularly urinary frequency, were the most common complaints among 76.60%(295). Moderate to severe LUTS were significantly more prevalent in women aged over 40 years and in those with increasing parity (p < 0.001). All women with diabetes mellitus and those with a history of hysterectomy reported LUTS, with the majority experiencing moderate to severe symptoms. No statistically significant association was observed between mode of delivery and LUTS severity.
Conclusion: Lower urinary tract symptoms are highly prevalent among 79% women attending tertiary care in Kathmandu, with increasing age, higher parity, diabetes mellitus, and prior hysterectomy being significant associated factors. Early identification and targeted management strategies are essential to reduce symptom severity and improve quality of life among affected women.