A retrospective review of our experience with the artificial urinary sphincter in 32 women is presented. All patients had a history of recurrent urinary incontinence after failed bladder suspension procedures. Of 32 devices 31 were functioning, with an average followup of 2.5 years, and 91 per cent of the patients were dry without pads. Mechanical complications requiring surgical repair occurred in 21 per cent of the patients. Indications for artificial urinary sphincter implantation in the female patient and technical aspects of the procedure are discussed. The artificial urinary sphincter appears to be an acceptable treatment modality for urethral sphincter deficiency resulting in recurrent urinary stress incontinence in female patients.