Examining the Impact of Urinary Troubles on Active Women Golfers in Japan

Introduction

In recent findings from a survey conducted by Mitsui Medical Japan, a staggering 62% of active female golfers reported experiencing urinary issues, which significantly affect their concentration and overall performance during competitions. Surprisingly, roughly 70% of these women have never spoken to anyone about their concerns. This article delves into the implications of these findings for female golfers and the innovations brought forth by femtech products designed to address these challenges.

Survey Insights

The survey was conducted between December 25, 2025, and January 9, 2026, encompassing 92 active female golfers aged between 30 and 60 across Japan. Participants were selected based on their engagement in golf at least once a month, ensuring that the data collected truly reflects the experiences of active players.

Key Findings

- Urinary Issues: 62% of respondents acknowledged facing anxiety from urinary leaks or frequent urges while playing golf. The majority of these incidents occur during swings, suggesting a link between physical exertion and urinary control.
- Common Triggers: The most prevalent triggers identified were during swings (59.6%), sudden urges from cold weather (33.3%), and maintaining balance on slopes (26.3%). This highlights the specific requirements of golfing that can challenge bodily control.

The Need for Solutions

Historically, femtech has made strides in areas like menstruation and infertility, yet the intersection of urinary issues and sports remains an underserved domain. The discomfort and anxiety associated with urinary leakage during golfing can drastically alter a player's focus and enjoyment. The psychological impact is significant, with participants expressing that such concerns directly affect their game.

Participant Reflections

Mitsui Keiko, the product developer for Femcushion Happiness, echoed this sentiment: "I often felt that fear during play impacted my scores and concentration. Discovering through this survey that many women share this experience is both shocking and reassuring at the same time."

Adverse Effects and Silence

The survey also revealed that nearly 70% of respondents who experienced urinary incontinence had never discussed their issues with anyone. This silence signifies a cultural stigma around the topic, as many believe these problems are temporary or a natural part of aging, preventing them from seeking help.

- Impact on Play: Respondents reported altering their behavior due to anxiety regarding their condition. Most commonly, they would limit fluid intake (43.9%), hesitate to take their swing (40.4%), or lose concentration (36.8%). This self-imposed restriction may lead to reduced performance and enjoyment in the game.

Innovation in Femtech

To address these growing concerns, Mitsui Medical Japan launched the "Femcushion Happiness" shorts, designed to support pelvic floor muscles effectively. By enhancing the structure to better alleviate concerns about urinary incontinence, the product aims to empower female athletes by providing both physical support and psychological relief. Recent modifications made to the product have resulted in a 30% improvement in its supportive design, which was praised by professional golfers during trials.

Feedback from Golfers

In a recent trial involving 10 professional female golfers, positive responses were garnered, with comments praising the shorts for their comfort and effectiveness in supporting posture and movement. Many expressed the need for such a product in their regular golfing attire, emphasizing the intersection of sport and holistic health.

Looking Beyond Golf

While initially aimed at athletes, the implications of Femcushion Happiness extend to everyday usage for women who may experience similar urinary concerns in non-sporting contexts. The potential applications for this innovative product range from post-pregnancy recovery to aiding women in demanding professions, such as those involving prolonged standing.

Conclusion

Mitsui Medical Japan's findings underscore a pressing issue within the golfing community and women's health overall. By fostering an environment where female athletes can openly discuss urinary issues without stigma, we create a path for innovation and support in sports and beyond. Keiko Mitsui emphasizes the necessity for these conversations: "The goal is to create a society where discussing urinary problems doesn't carry shame. This development not only targets athletes but also aims to reach women globally, positively impacting their quality of life."