Urinary Incontinence (UI) is the most prevalent pelvic floor dysfunction. High-impact sports, such as running, increase in intra-abdominal pressure, which can lead to UI. The prevalence of UI among female runners ranges from 19.6% to 44%. Despite its health benefits, UI may negatively impact on running performance. In northern Brazil, particularly in Amapá, there is a lack of epidemiological data on UI in female runners. This underscores the need for further research to assess risk factors, population characteristics, and the impact on runners' Quality of Life (QoL), ultimately guiding prevention and treatment strategies.

This study aims to identify UI prevalence in female runners, analyzing sociodemographic, anthropometric and urogynecological profiles, and UI subtypes: Stress Urinary Incontinence (SUI), Urgency Urinary Incontinence (UUI), and Mixed Urinary Incontinence (MUI). Additionally, we sought to identify risk factors for UI (age, number of pregnancies, obesity, among others). This analysis aims to establish correlations between running, UI and QoL.

This observational, cross-sectional study followed CHERRIES guidelines. Conducted online in Brazil (2024–2025), it included female runners aged 18–59 who had been running for = 6 months, = 2 times/week. Exclusion criteria included pregnancy, postpartum < 12 months, recent pelvic surgery, and neurological diseases. Data collection was conducted via Google Forms, with participants recruited through social media and running groups. Validated questionnaires (ICIQ-SF, QUID-Br, and 3IQ-Br) were used. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS and Poisson regression (p < 0.05, CI 95%).

From January 2024 to March 2025, 72 women from the metropolitan region of Amapá were contacted. Of these, 7 (13.20%) reported UI. The mean age was 34.38 years (± 13.21), mean weight was 67.71 kg (± 9.39), and mean BMI was 25.65 kg/m² (± 2.83). A total of 57.12% were white. UI episodes in the last three months were reported by 85.71%, with a weekly frequency of once or less (42.86%) and only a small amount of urine loss (85.71%). The most prevalent type was MUI (71.42%), followed by SUI (28.57%). No cases of UUI were reported. UI was not a limiting factor for running. Regarding QoL, 42.86% reported a mild impact, 28.57% moderate, and 14.29% severe.

This study found a low prevalence of UI among female runners, with a predominance of MUI, contrary to the literature which suggests that SUI is the most common in high-impact athletes. UI did not cause limitations in sports practice and had a mild to moderate impact on QoL. Future research should explore associated factors and expand the sample to other regions of Brazil to develop preventive and therapeutic strategies.

This study contributes to the literature by addressing a gap in knowledge on the prevalence and impact of urinary incontinence in female runners from northern Brazil. The findings may enhance preventive and therapeutic strategies, supporting physiotherapists in pelvic floor rehabilitation. Additionally, they highlight the importance of pelvic health in women&apos;s sports, encouraging early interventions to minimize impacts on athletic performance and QoL.