Urinary incontinence products

Alternative Names

Adult diapers; Disposable urinary collection devices

Information

There are many products to help you manage urinary incontinence. You can decide which product to choose based on:

INSERTS AND PADS

You may have tried using sanitary pads to manage urine leaks. However, these products aren't made to absorb urine. So they don't work as well for that purpose.

Pads made for urine leaks can soak up a lot more fluid than sanitary pads. They also have a waterproof backing. These pads 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

If you leak a lot of urine, you may need to use adult diapers.

Reusable underpants may help save money.

PRODUCTS FOR MEN

PRODUCTS FOR WOMEN

BED AND CHAIR PROTECTION

KEEP YOUR SKIN DRY

When you use these products, it's important to protect your skin. Skin can break down when in contact with urine for a long time.

WHERE TO BUY URINARY INCONTINENCE PRODUCTS

You can find most products at your local drugstore, supermarket, or medical supply store. Ask your health care provider for a list of incontinence care products.

The National Association for Continence may be able to help you find products. Call toll-free at 1-800-BLADDER or visit the website: www.nafc.org. You can buy their Resource Guide that lists products and services along with mail order companies.

References

Boone TB, Stewart JN, Martinez LM. Additional therapies for storage and emptying failure. In: Partin AW, Dmochowski RR, Kavoussi LR, Peters CA, eds. Campbell-Walsh-Wein Urology. 12th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2021:chap 127.

Stiles M, Walsh K. Care of the elderly patient. In: Rakel RE, Rakel DP, eds. Textbook of Family Medicine. 9th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier Saunders; 2016:chap 4.

Wagg AS. Urinary incontinence. In: Fillit HM, Rockwood K, Young J, eds. Brocklehurst's Textbook of Geriatric Medicine and Gerontology. 8th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier, 2017:chap 106.



Review Date: 7/1/2023
Reviewed By: Kelly L. Stratton, MD, FACS, Associate Professor, Department of Urology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK. Also reviewed by David C. Dugdale, MD, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.
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