The level of incontinence people experience differs radically, as do their circumstances so there is no one answer to the question “What Incontinence Product do I need?”. The correct incontinence pad is the one that meets the persons needs in terms of absorbency and mobility primarily (the type of care they are receiving also has an influence).

For those with light stress incontinence (occasional leaks or dribbles) then small (often referred to as Light Shaped) pads that fit into the user’s own underwear are available for both women and men. As with all disposable incontinence pads these have the benefit of odour control.  These are suitable for people with all levels of mobility although generally people who experience light incontinence are fairly mobile.

Another option for those with light urinary incontinence are washable incontinence pants.  As these do not contain super absorbents (the liquid is retained with a cotton pad built into the underwear) they can only be used for lighter conditions, however they have the benefit of looking and feeling like normal underwear.

For those with a moderate or heavier condition then there are a variety of different options.

Shaped Incontinence Pads offer a cost effective solution. These are larger shaped pads designed to be held in place against the body using mesh fixation pants. These products can move around over time though, especially at night increasing the risk of leaks and can be awkward to remove and then replace when toileting making them only really suitable for the less mobile, even then changing these products can be awkward and require a couple of people to fit them properly.

All in One incontinence pads offer a better solution for those with lower mobility who experience moderate or heavy incontinence, These pads use tapes (generally two per side, high and low) to hold the pad securely in place. This means that the pad is very well located and unlikely to move, thus reducing risks of leaks. However they nature of the product mean that they are best applied with the wearer lying down. This type of product are sometimes called Slips or occasionally an adult diaper.

Belted All in One Incontinence Pads are a better solution for those with relatively good mobility, these have a built in belt attached which goes around the waist of the wearer, with the front of the pad fastening onto the belt using a Velcro (hook and loop) style fastening. This fixing methods means that product the pad doesn’t need to be removed fully for normal toilet use if far easier. Also the product is easier to put on, and this can be done by just the wearer if needed.

For those who are fully mobile then disposable pull up incontinence pants offer an alternative to incontinence pads for those for all levels of incontinence from light through to relatively heavy. These can be pulled up and down just like normal underwear but whilst offering the security of a built in pad. As they are like normal underwear the product can be put on by the wearer quickly and easily, however this can also make them harder to use for those who are less mobile who often relying on help applying products.

As everyone’s needs are different, it’s recommended to try to find one or two different types you think might be suitable for your needs then trying these to see what suits you best.

It’s important to check you have the right size for a close, comfortable fit and the right level of absorbance for your needs. This might mean using a different level of absorption during the day compared to night time.

You might also find that different products are most suitable for your needs depending on the time of day and the planned activities for that day, it’s important to select the correct product for your needs and not just the most absorbent incontinence pad.