How to choose products to treat urinary incontinence in women?

Urinary incontinence in women is a disorder of urination accompanied by an inability to regulate bladder emptying. Depending on the form, it is manifested by uncontrolled leakage of urine when straining or at rest, sudden and uncontrollable urges to urinate, and unconscious urinary incontinence.

This condition is prevalent, and it affects women more frequently than males. The anatomy of the female urogenital system, likely changes caused by pregnancy and childbirth, and a decline in the body’s amount of female sex hormones (estrogen) with age all contribute to this. The condition robs women of sleep, exhausts their bodies, inhibits travel, and restricts physical activity, lowering their quality of life.

Depending on how mobile a person is, what their condition is (including mentally), and the degree of incontinence in their case, you can choose the product that is optimal in price and according to the needs of the person.

Anatomical, traditional, and waist diapers, absorbent panties, and urological pads for women are all types of products that is usually considered as incontinence products.

Incontinence pads for women

Suitable for women with an active lifestyle or partially limited movement (in a wheelchair, moving within the room), with a degree of incontinence from dripping to moderate. 

Often women, to save money, use sanitary pads designed for “critical days” for urinary incontinence. But because the consistency of blood and urine is different (the urine is more liquid and the blood is thicker), these pads leak.

How are the incontinence products are different from the sanitary pads?

They can absorb more and have hydrophobic (moisture-repellent) edges that protect against leakage. In addition to leaking urine, psychological discomfort is caused by the unpleasant smell, and unique urological products can cope with it. 

The ability of the product to neutralize the unpleasant smell indicated by modern manufacturers on the packaging of a special pictogram. All urological absorbent products (diapers, panties) also have this ability.

Diapers and incontinence briefs

Most often, caring for the critically ill, people use just classic diapers. However, this is not always the right decision. Diapers are different, and all models suit men and women. In addition, diapers differ in the type of fixation.

Anatomical diapers (open type)

Anatomical diapers look like large pads. But unlike urological pads and pads, which have an adhesive strip to fasten to underwear, open-type diapers are attached to the ward with elastic, mesh panty-fasteners and have much more excellent absorbency.

Belt diapers (semi-open type)

Waist diapers are diapers with an elastic waistband for retention, combining the advantages of anatomical and classic diapers. Such a product leaves the thighs half open and does not require the use of special fixation panties.

Absorbent panties (closed type)

Absorbent panties look like regular underwear, which is great for people with dementia. These people need to use familiar items of clothing. The absorbent panties are inconspicuous under clothing, which means they are suitable for people with active lifestyles and those undergoing motor rehabilitation.

Traditional or classic (closed type) diapers

It is the traditional (classic) diaper we are most familiar with and most often used when caring for a severely ill adult. They look similar to baby diapers, with Velcro on the sides.

The hygiene products market offers a vast range of products that can make the disease disappear quickly and unnoticed. You can buy them at the pharmacy as well as in the supermarket. The cost varies, but everyone will be able to find the right option for themselves. Patients can lead their usual way of life and not deny themselves anything.

Proper purchase of personal hygiene products helps in overcoming the disease, as well as eliminating unpleasant mishaps. In addition, a woman should feel comfortable, even with the condition that does not allow her to walk for long periods.

Elisabeth Baron, M.D., Assistant Professor of Clinical Obstetrics & Gynecology

Assistant Attending Obstetrician Gynecologist.