What Are the Relationships Between Mental Health Problems and Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms and How Should They be Assessed? ICI RS 2025.

AIMS: To discuss the relationships between mental health problems (MHP) and lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS). To propose an assessment plan for identifying MHP in patients presenting with LUTS.

METHODS

This review is the outcome of a global multi-disciplinary think tank at the International Consultation on Incontinence (ICI-RS 2025) meeting held in June 2025 in Bristol, United Kingdom that examined the broad issue of mental health and LUTS. The relationship of MHP and LUTS in adults and children, and the possible underlying mechanisms, is presented.

RESULTS

Robust evidence was noted for an association between MHP and LUTS, including storage symptoms, voiding symptoms, and bladder pain. However, the underlying mechanisms that underpin this relationship remain unclear. Clinical markers that might indicate MHP and screening tools for assessment by clinicians involved with LUTS care, are discussed. Recommendations are made with regard to key areas for future research.

CONCLUSIONS

There is a consensus on the existence of a relationship between mental health problems and lower urinary tract symptoms. A better understanding of the nature of this relationship, the mechanisms that underlie it, and the best methods to assess it, is crucial to improving clinical care.