• Mean change in grams of urinary leakage as measured by Pad test
  

• Quality of life as measured by IQOL scale, sexuality as measured by questionnaire, subjective assessment of SI and general health
  

Background: Urinary stress incontinence(SI) is defined as involuntary urinary loss which appears during increased intra-abdominal pressure which can be measured objectively. It is an important social and hygienic problem. Its prevalence varies fron 12-55% depending on age, and geography. The economic costs of this condition were estimated to reach 24 billion dollars in the US in 1995. The objectives of this study are to evaluate two non-invasive methods of treatment of stress incontinence. Methods: 200 women who chosen from the community and suffering from SI will enter the study and will be randomized to one of two arms. The first arm is the Paula method of circular muscle exercises: these women will receive private lessons from a registered Paula instructor. The system is based on activating circular muscles in the body. The second arm will receive instruction in pelvic floor muscle training by a physiotherapist.

The clinical trial will compare the efficacy of the methods for the treatment of SI. The candidates for inclusion in the trial will undergo a gynecological exam and a "Pad Test". The efficacy will be measured in terms of changes in the Pad test (quantity of urinary leakage) and subjective reports of the participants on leakage, quality of life and sexual function.