If you are someone who suffers from incontinence, then you know that finding the right products to help manage your condition is important. Incontinence pads are one of the most important tools in managing incontinence. In this blog post, we will discuss nine different incontinence pads that might be a good fit for you, incontinence management, and skincare.
There are many different types of incontinence pads available on the market, so it is important to find one that meets your specific needs. The type of incontinence pad you choose will depend on a number of factors, including the severity of your incontinence, your level of activity, and your personal preferences.
What Are The Best Incontinence Pads?
- Depend Real Fit for Men
- Always Discreet Underwear for Women
- Depend Real Fit for Women
- Tena Men Active Fit
- Always Discreet Long
- Poise Extra Long Liners
- Abena Abri-Form
- MoliCare Premium Mobile
- Conni Men/Women washable incontinence underwear with insert pads
1, Depend Real Fit for Men incontinence pads
yu’s Pick
Overview
Depend® Real-Fit Underwear for Men is specifically designed to fit and feel like real underwear and protect against heavy loss of bladder control.
Top Features
- Slim fit design for discretion.
- Cotton-flex fabric for comfort.
- Superior protection for confidence.
- Custom design to fit the shape of men.
- Worry-free odour control.
- Soft, discreet and breathable.
Pricing
From $13.00
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Like real underwear.
- Blue colour available.
Cons:
- Expensive
- Disposable pads, not environmental friendly.
2, Always Discreet Underwear for Women
yu’s Pick
Overview
Always Discreet Pants lets you continue with your day with bladder leak incontinence protection that gives you coverage even when you experience large amounts of leakage. It has a smooth and secure fit that looks and feels like real underwear.
Top Features
- Absorbs leaks in seconds.
- With 360 Form Fit.
- With a Rapid Dry Triple Lock core that turns liquid to gel.
- Built with Odour Control that starts to neutralize odours instantly and continuously.
- Offers secure protection you can barely feel.
- With double protective leak guards to help keep wetness away from the edges.
- Contains different feminine designs.
- Lightly Scented. Dermatologically tested.
Pricing
From $14.99
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Super absorbent core.
- Comfortable and discreet.
Cons:
- Expensive.
- Some customers did not like the scent.
3, Depend Real Fit for Women incontinence pads
yu’s Pick
Overview
Depend® Real-Fit Super Underwear for Women is specifically designed to fit and feel like real underwear and protect against heavy loss of bladder control.
Top Features
- Depend Real-Fit disposable underwear for Women is designed for discreet, maximum absorbency protection.
- 3-in-1 protection offers worry-free odour control, fast absorption and a discreet fit.
- Cotton-like disposable underwear in a neutral colour that looks, fits and feels like real underwear.
Pricing
From $12
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Like real underwear.
- Comfortable.
Cons:
- Expensive.
- Disposable pads, not environmental friendly.
4, Tena Men Active Fit incontinence pads
yu’s Pick
Overview
TENA Men Active Fit Pants are engineered to look and feel like regular underwear but with high absorbency. Designed in a masculine shape tailored to fit the male anatomy. Made from soft, navy blue fabric for a discreet look. Ideal for maximum discretion and comfort, with the confidence and security of high absorbency.
Top Features
- Masculine and engineered to look and feel like normal underwear but with high absorbency, these are undetectable under clothing.
- Secure Absorption Zone in the front that quickly draws in and locks fluid away, leaving the surface and skin dry.
- Odour control technology prevents odours from developing and keeps you feeling fresh for longer.
- Odour control technology prevents odours from developing and keeps you feeling fresh for longer.
Pricing
From $13.49
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Like normal underwear.
- Navy blue fabric for a discreet look.
Cons:
- Expensive.
- May leak if there is a large amount.
5, Always Discreet Long Liners
yu’s Pick
Overview
Always Discreet Pads give you secure urinary incontinence protection that you can barely feel. Designed to fit your body and your life, the incredibly thin absorbent core is designed to give you comfort and protection. It has 3-in-1 dryness, comfort and odour control with a Rapid Dry core that protects against leaks by locking in liquid and turning it into gel. Use Always Discreet when you experience occasional leakage.
Top Features
- Trusted protection from leaks.
- Rapid dry.
- Odour neutralizing technology.
- Discreet fit.
- Soft and gentle to the skin.
- Lightly scented.
- Dermatologically tested.
Pricing
$8.49
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Comfortable.
- Long length.
Cons:
- The pad’s outer fabric breaks down.
- Doesn’t fit well and folds.
6, Poise Extra Long Liners
Yu’s Pick
Overview
POISE® Liners Extra Long for urine leaks provides thin, discreet light bladder leakage (LBL) protection for droplets when sneezing, coughing or laughing. More absorbent than leading period liners so you remain protected to feel feminine, confident and in control.
Top Features
- Greater security – extra length for protection and security. 30% longer than Poise Light Liners.
- Absorbent pad – 4-layer design quickly absorbs and locks away wetness into the super absorbent ABSORB-LOC core.
- Skin dryness – soft, quick dry cover keeps you dry and comfortable all day. Change as required.
- All-day comfort – designed to hold its shape all day without scrunching, bunching, twisting or curling.
- Fragrance Free with No Added Nasties* (*No added azo dyes, natural rubber latex, elemental chlorine or other chemicals restricted by Kimberly-Clark).
- Individually wrapped – hygienic & discreet.
Pricing
From $4.40
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Discreet design.
- Extremely absorbent.
Cons:
- Only suitable for light incontinence.
- Excess packaging.
7, Abena Abri-Form L4 Premium incontinence pads
Yu’s Pick
Overview
Abri-Form Premium L4 is an incontinence pad for heavy incontinence. It has been designed to give optimum leakage security for highly demanding situations. Abri-Form Premium offers full top-end quality and top-of-the-line functionality.
Top Features
- Carries environmental Nordic Ecolabel.
- Dermatologically tested to support sensitive skin.
- Latex-free and non-chlorine bleached.
- Full breathability.
- Soft, comfortable and noiseless.
- Optimal leakage protection provided by soft and reliable leakage barriers.
- Unique Top Dry system providing a dry surface and rapid absorption to stay dry.
- Flexible tape equipped with adhesive strip and hooks to allow for repositioning.
- Wetness indicator with graduation scale.
Pricing
From $28.95
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Best plastic-backed diaper for a good night’s sleep or an active daily life.
- A range of different styles, sizes and absorbency levels.
Cons:
- Some users found it difficult to find the right size.
- Expensive.
8, MoliCare Premium Mobile 6 drops and 8 drops pull ups
yu’s Pick
Overview
Skin-friendly pull ups for moderate incontinence to heavy incontinence which look and feel like normal underwear whilst offering the highest level of leakage protection.
Top Features
- Pull-up pant that looks and feels like normal underwear.
- Suitable for both men and women.
- 3-layer absorbent core keeps skin dry.
- Maintains the skin pH and reduces the risk of incontinence-related skin irritation.
- Inner leakage cuffs for maximum leakage protection.
- Odour neutralisers for high-level confidence.
- Soft textile-like materials for ultimate wearing comfort.
- Tear open side seams for easy changing.
- Suitable for moderate leakage to heavy leakage.
Pricing
From $26.90
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Good overnight protection.
- Give your normal life back.
- Most users suggested 6 drops for the day and 8 drops for the night.
- Good for those who are bed bound with urinary and bowel incontinence.
- A range of different styles, sizes and absorbency levels.
Cons:
- Expensive.
9, Conni Men/Women washable incontinence underwear with insert pads
yu’s Pick
Overview
Conni is a trusted Australian brand that has been creating a range of reusable incontinence products for over 17 years. Included in the Conni range is washable leak-proof underwear for both men and women that are designed to absorb and protect against moisture. The best thing about Conni is that you can re-use the underwear over and over again as it is machine washable and tumble dryer safe. It’s the ideal way to save the environment and yourself the cost of disposable underwear.
Top Features
- Soft microfibre lining rapidly absorbs and feels dryer.
- The liner is comfortable.
- Purposely shaped for men and women, supplied in a twin pack with a convenient waterproof zip bag.
- Suitable for light to moderate incontinence 180mls over 4 hours.
- Can be machine washed and tumble dried countless times.
Pricing
Underwear: from $22
Insert pad: from $22
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Money saver.
- Environmentally friendly.
- Australian brand.
Cons:
- Designed only for light incontinence.
- Initially expensive to purchase.
Frequently Asked Questions.
1, What is incontinence?
Incontinence is the involuntary leakage of urine or faeces. It is a common problem that affects people of all ages but is most prevalent in older adults.
There are many different types of incontinence, but the two most common are urinary incontinence and faecal incontinence. Urinary incontinence is when you leak urine, and faecal incontinence is when you leak stool (faeces).
Incontinence can be a temporary problem that occurs due to an underlying condition, such as a urinary tract infection (UTI), constipation, or pregnancy. In other cases, incontinence may be a chronic condition that requires long-term management.
There are many different treatments available for incontinence, and the best approach depends on the underlying cause of the problem. In some cases, simple lifestyle changes, such as cutting back on caffeine or losing weight, may be all that is needed to treat incontinence. In other cases, more aggressive treatment options, such as medications or surgery, may be necessary.
If you are struggling with incontinence, it is important to talk to your doctor about your symptoms and concerns. They can help you find the best treatment option for your individual needs.
2, How do incontinence pads work?
Incontinence pads are designed to absorb and contain urine or faeces. They are usually made from a combination of absorbent materials, such as cellulose, gel, or foam, and waterproof backing. The most popular incontinence products are absorbent pads that are worn inside underwear to soak up urine.
Pads and pull-up pants use the same technology as babies’ nappies and have a “hydrophobic” layer that draws urine away from the surface of the product, so your skin stays dry.
There are a variety of disposable pads available to manage incontinence. Pads come in a variety of sizes, shapes, and absorbencies to meet individual needs. Some people use disposable pads exclusively, while others may use them in combination with other incontinence products such as washable incontinence underwear or protective underwear. Disposable pads can offer peace of mind and help people stay dry and comfortable throughout the day.
3, How do I choose the most suitable pads?
Incontinence pads can be purchased online or at most pharmacies and grocery stores. When choosing an incontinence pad, it is important to consider the absorbency level, size, and shape. You should also look for a product that is comfortable to wear and easy to change.
For light incontinence, a pad is usually sufficient, whereas, for moderate to heavy incontinence, a slip or pants is more appropriate.
For people with an active lifestyle, pants and pads are often a good choice because they are easier to change and replace by the person themselves. Inserts are available in many sizes and absorbency levels to accommodate individuals with an active lifestyle and are the most comfortable products to use during physical activity.
Finding the right size incontinence product is of great importance, although it is important to note that the absorbency level of a product has nothing to do with the size of the incontinence product. It may sound counterintuitive, but a product that is too large actually increases the risk of leakage, while a product that is too small or ill-fitting will feel uncomfortable.
The best fit can be determined by measuring the hip circumference, which is measured by stretching a measuring tape around the widest part of the hips, about 10 centimetres below the navel.
Most incontinence brands provide samples to customers to try before purchase.
If you are unsure which type of incontinence pad is right for you, talk to your incontinence nurse or a continence advisor. They can help you choose a product that meets your needs and budget.
4, How often should an incontinence pad be changed?
Incontinence pads should be changed as often as needed to keep the skin clean and dry. It is recommended to change incontinence pads around four to six times per day. You should always change your incontinence pad when it’s wet, as wearing it for longer can contribute to bad odours, poor hygiene and skin conditions. Irritation and chaffing can also occur if you leave a pad on for too long regardless of whether it is wet or dry. However, some people may need to change their pad more frequently, depending on the severity of their incontinence and the absorbency levels of the incontinence product.
For the night, you can use overnight incontinence pads , which are designed to provide maximum absorbency and keep you dry throughout the night. It is important to change your overnight pad first thing in the morning to avoid any skin irritation.
If you are using an incontinence pad, it is important to wash your hands before and after changing the pad. You should also empty the contents of the pad into the toilet and flush away any solid waste. The used pad can then be thrown in the trash.
5, Other incontinence products.
Other useful incontinence products for heavy leakage include urinals (devices that collect urine), or sheaths and drainage systems (if you have a penis).
A variety of incontinence bedding can give you extra protection, such as washable bed pads that sit on top of the mattress and soak up any overnight leaks. The pads stay dry to the touch and they can be useful for trips away from home.
6, Why skincare is important for incontinence care?
People with incontinence are at a higher risk for skin irritations due to the build-up of excess moisture in delicate and hard to reach areas that can impact the skin. Common skin health problems for people with incontinence include redness, peeling skin, irritation, and yeast infections.
Thankfully, there are several ways to treat and even avoid skin conditions related to incontinence. Below we’ve listed some tried and tested ways to help keep you and your delicate skin areas dry and healthy each day.
Keep your skin dry and clean
To keep incontinence related skin issues to a minimum, it’s best to keep your skin clean and dry as best as you can. This means changing your continence pads as often as possible and cleaning your buttocks, hips, genitals and perineum every time you change your incontinence pads. Afterwards, it’s important to dry the area with a soft, clean cloth to keep your skin as dry and non-irritated as possible.
Barrier cream
Because the area itself is prone to being damp or wet throughout the day, it’s important to keep the skin as protected as possible, as moist areas may cause extra skin irritation, rashes or sores.
Applying a topical barrier cream after you clean and dry yourself is very important as it provides skin with extra protection from the wet conditions associated with incontinence.
On-the-go continence protection
Changing your continence pads and keeping your skin clean, dry and protected is not always easy when you’re out and about or visiting friends and family. However, keeping yourself as clean and as dry as possible is still important. That’s why you should keep specially designed with you, along with a new continence pad, just in case you need a quick change.
The best-wet wipes should not only conveniently help you to clean, but should also include a moisturiser for your skin, as well as some type of barrier protection that will suffice until you can get home.
Wheelchair or bedridden issues
For people who are in a wheelchair or are bedridden, it’s important to incorporate all of the above into their routine, with the addition of:
- Changing your position as often as possible (every 15-20 mins in a wheelchair or every two hours if bedridden). You may need someone to help you with this.
- Changing your clothing and/or bedding as soon as they become soiled.
- Making sure you are comfortable. Use a pillow or foam cushion to take pressure off your bottom.
Continence care can be complex and individualised, so it’s important to get professional advice if you’re unsure about anything. A continence nurse or advisor can help you choose the right products and develop a management plan that’s tailored to your needs. They can also provide you with practical tips and advice on how to manage your condition day-to-day.
You can find your nearest continence service by visiting the National Continence Helpline website or calling their helpline on 1800 33 00 66.
Conclusion
Incontinence is a common but manageable condition that does not have to interfere with your daily life. By following the tips above, you can help reduce the risk of skin problems and live your life with confidence.
If you have any other questions about incontinence pads or would like to share your own experiences, please don’t hesitate to reach out.
