Urinary incontinence products
Key points
- A wide variety of products are available for managing the leakage of urine associated with urinary incontinence.
- Some men and women try to use sanitary napkins or mini pads to manage urine leakage.
- People who leak large amounts of urine may need to use adult diapers to contain the urine.
- Men who have problems with a constant leakage of small amounts of urine may find that a drip collector may be sufficient.
Alternative names
Adult diapers; Disposable urinary collection devices
Information
A wide variety of products are available for managing the leakage of urine associated with urinary incontinence. Your choice of a specific product depends on several factors, including the amount of urine loss, the pattern of urine loss, ease of use, cost, comfort, odor control ability, and durability.
INSERTS AND PADS
Some men and women try to use sanitary napkins or mini pads to manage urine leakage. However, these products do not handle urine very well. Disposable inserts are available that resemble a sanitary napkin or mini pad, but they are much more absorbent and have a waterproof backing. These inserts are meant to be worn inside your underwear. Some companies make reusable, washable cloth liners or pads that are held in place by waterproof pants.
ADULT DIAPERS AND UNDERWEAR
People who leak large amounts of urine may need to use adult diapers to contain the urine. Adult diapers are available in both disposable and reusable forms. The disposable diaper should fit snugly. They are usually available in small, medium, large and extra large sizes. Some of these diapers have elastic leg gathers to improve the fit and prevent urine leakage.
Reusable incontinence undergarments may help save money. These resemble underpants with a waterproof crotch. They are designed to hold a reusable panty liner in place.
There is also a newer line of reusable incontinence undergarments that resemble normal underwear, but have the absorbency of disposable diapers. These undergarments require no additional pads, but instead have a unique crotch design that quickly wicks moisture away from the skin. They are available in a variety of leakage control levels.
Other reusable incontinence products include washable, adult cloth diapers or contoured cloth diapers with a plastic cover. Additionally, some people wear waterproof outer pants made of nylon, vinyl or rubber over their undergarments as an additional level of protection.
PRODUCTS FOR MEN
Men who have problems with a constant leakage of small amounts of urine may find that a drip collector may be sufficient. A drip collector is a small pocket of absorbent padding with a waterproof back side. The drip collector is worn over the penis and is held in place by close fitting underwear.
Men can also use a condom catheter device. This product is placed over the penis similar to a condom. It has a tube on the end and connects with a collection bag tied to the leg. This device can handle small or large volumes of urine with little odor, minimal skin irritation, and easy use.
Written and revised by
Andrey Nailor, M.D.
Our doctors write and review articles for accuracy and keep them up to date.
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