Urinary Incontinence

DC 7542Genitourinary38 CFR 4.115a, DC 7542

Involuntary loss of urine. The VA rates urinary incontinence under voiding dysfunction criteria based on how often you need to change absorbent materials or use an appliance.

Rating Levels

You need to use an appliance or wear absorbent materials that must be changed more than 4 times per day. This is the maximum rating under voiding dysfunction.

What the VA looks for

Use of an appliance (catheter) or absorbent materials
Materials changed more than 4 times per day
Severe impact on daily functioning
Medical documentation of frequency

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not documenting how many times per day you change absorbent materials — the rating is based specifically on this frequency.
⚠Not connecting incontinence to a primary service-connected condition such as prostate surgery, spinal cord injury, or neurological conditions.
⚠Being embarrassed to report the true severity — accurately describe your worst days and the actual number of pad changes.
⚠Not filing for secondary conditions like skin irritation, depression, or social isolation caused by incontinence.

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Kidney Conditions (Nephrology)
DBQ Male Reproductive Organ Conditions

View evidence checklist →See secondary conditions →

Condition Rating Guides

Understand what the VA looks for at each rating level — loading conditions…