There are three limitations in the application of current HRQL questionnaires related to overactive bladder (OAB): 1) no OAB-specific questionnaire has been developed in an OAB population with patients experiencing OAB symptoms but not incontinence; 2) the sample populations on which such questionnaires have been tested have been restricted to primarily clinical patients with incontinence; 3) past questionnaires have been developed in female-only populations. OBJECTIVE: To initiate the development of an OAB-specific HRQL questionnaire. METHODS: Participants were recruited via newspaper advertisement and screened to ensure they met the study criteria (predominantly OAB-dry). The groups were gender-specific: Group 1 = 7 men; Group 2 = 9 women. The participants were asked open-ended questions on symptoms (frequency, urgency and leakage), coping behaviors and life impact. Data were analyzed using content analysis. A draft questionnaire was developed and reviewed by 88% (14) of the focus group participants who indicated that the questionnaire captured their thoughts and experiences. RESULTS: Participants reported significant impact in their HRQL due to OAB in a variety of domains. The symptoms of frequency, urgency, and nocturia caused significant alterations in productivity, travel/commuting, sleep, physical activities, social functioning, relationships, and psychological well-being, as well as causing a number of coping behaviors. Most issues were similar between men and women. Men reported interrupted sleep as the greatest area of HRQL impact; women were unable to identify a single prominent issue or domain. CONCLUSION: This instrument reflects numerous concerns and issues identified by OAB focus group participants that were not found in previously developed questionnaires. It is currently in the validation phase for future research.