Incontinence pads, pants and liners

Incontinence, the involuntary loss of urine, can affect people of all ages, but it becomes more common as we get older. While it's a sensitive topic, understanding the different types of incontinence products available can empower you to manage the condition discreetly and comfortably in your home.

Common scenarios and concerns	Lifestyle and equipment options to help you
Leakage and wetness: Uncontrolled urine loss can lead to embarrassment, discomfort, and potential skin irritation. This can lead to reduced quality of life, social isolation, and the potential for skin infections.	Incontinence pads: Absorbent pads worn discreetly in underwear to manage light to moderate bladder leaks. Incontinence pants: Pull-up style absorbent garments offering moderate to heavy leakage protection and resembling regular underwear. Incontinence liners: Thin, absorbent pads designed for light leaks and vaginal discharge.
Difficulty managing and changing incontinence products: Limited dexterity or mobility can make changing products challenging. This can lead to increased reliance on others, frustration, and the potential for leaks.	Pull-up style incontinence pants: Offer easier self-management compared to pads. Products with leak indicators: Visually indicate when a change is needed, promoting discretion and reducing unnecessary changes.
Skin irritation and discomfort: Constant moisture exposure can lead to skin breakdown and discomfort. This can lead to discomfort, the potential for infections, and a reduced quality of life.	Breathable materials: Choose products with breathable materials like cotton to allow air circulation and prevent moisture buildup. Skin barrier creams: Protect the skin from irritation caused by urine contact.

Common scenarios and concerns

Lifestyle and equipment options to help you

Leakage and wetness: Uncontrolled urine loss can lead to embarrassment, discomfort, and potential skin irritation.

This can lead to reduced quality of life, social isolation, and the potential for skin infections.

Incontinence pads: Absorbent pads worn discreetly in underwear to manage light to moderate bladder leaks.

Incontinence pants: Pull-up style absorbent garments offering moderate to heavy leakage protection and resembling regular underwear.

Incontinence liners: Thin, absorbent pads designed for light leaks and vaginal discharge.

Difficulty managing and changing incontinence products: Limited dexterity or mobility can make changing products challenging.

This can lead to increased reliance on others, frustration, and the potential for leaks.

Pull-up style incontinence pants: Offer easier self-management compared to pads.

Products with leak indicators: Visually indicate when a change is needed, promoting discretion and reducing unnecessary changes.

Skin irritation and discomfort: Constant moisture exposure can lead to skin breakdown and discomfort.

This can lead to discomfort, the potential for infections, and a reduced quality of life.

Breathable materials: Choose products with breathable materials like cotton to allow air circulation and prevent moisture buildup.

Skin barrier creams: Protect the skin from irritation caused by urine contact.

Common concerns and challenges with incontinence

Here are some everyday challenges faced by individuals managing incontinence:

Leakage and wetness: Uncontrolled urine loss can lead to embarrassing situations, discomfort, and potential skin irritation.
Difficulty managing and changing products: Limited dexterity or mobility can make changing pads or managing fasteners challenging.
Skin irritation and discomfort: Constant moisture exposure can cause skin breakdown, redness, and discomfort.

Types of incontinence products for optimal management

Here's an overview of the different incontinence products available to address your specific needs:

Incontinence pads

Features:

Absorbent pads with adhesive backing that attach to your underwear.
Available in various absorbency levels for different leak volumes.
It is discreet and comfortable to wear.

Suitable for: Light to moderate bladder leaks.

Incontinence pants

Features:

Pull-up-style garments resembling regular underwear.
Offer moderate-to-heavy leakage protection.
More convenient for self-management compared to pads.

Suitable for: Moderate to heavy bladder leaks, individuals with limited dexterity, or those seeking a more discreet solution.

Incontinence liners

Features:

Thin, absorbent pads are designed for light leaks or vaginal discharge.
Offer daily protection and comfort.

Suitable for: Light leaks, spotting, or vaginal discharge.

Choosing the right incontinence product

Here are some key factors to consider when selecting incontinence products:

The severity of your leakage: Choose the appropriate absorbency level based on the amount of leakage you experience.
Level of activity and lifestyle: Opt for products that suit your activity level and lifestyle. Consider features like leak guards for active individuals or breathable materials for added comfort.
Ease of use and management: Select products that are easy to put on and take off, especially if you have limited dexterity. Pull-up-style pants might be a better option in such cases.
Skin sensitivity: Choose products made with soft, breathable materials to minimise the risk of skin irritation. Consider fragrance-free and hypoallergenic options if you have sensitive skin.

Additional things to consider

Talk to your doctor: Discuss your incontinence concerns with your doctor to determine the underlying cause and receive personalised advice on management strategies, including product recommendations.
Sample different products: Many retailers offer samples or trial packs, allowing you to try different products and find the best fit for your needs.
Skincare routine: Maintain a gentle skincare routine to protect your skin from irritation. This includes regular cleaning and using a moisture barrier cream after product changes.
Discretion and support: Remember, incontinence is a common condition, and you are not alone. Seek support from healthcare professionals, incontinence support groups, or trusted friends and family members.

Where to buy equipment to help you manage any leakages

Plymouth City Council, NHS Devon, and Livewell Southwest have jointly commissioned NRS Healthcare to deliver the Safe+Well service, and they have over 2,500 daily living aids that you can purchase by mail order, telephone, or online.

View the Plymouth Safe+Well website

NRS has a dedicated phone line with a trained team of specialists who can answer any questions you might have. Just call 0345 6461860.

Other places to buy equipment from:

Free assessment tool: Select the area of difficulty that is relevant to you. You will then be asked a few questions to guide you towards helpful daily living aids.
Free telephone advice line: Complete the online form, and we will contact you to arrange a convenient time to call.