Protective Underwear, Adult Diapers for Men and Women

Incontinence happens for a variety of reasons, although it is not a definitive aspect of aging. Health issues that occur in both men and women as they get older can be causes of urinary incontinence. This can lead to conditions such as urge incontinence or an overactive bladder. Incontinence products include disposable adult diapers and briefs, as well as reusable briefs as protective underwear.

What is Incontinence Underwear?

Incontinence underwear can refer to many different styles of protective underwear that help to guard against urine leakage and accidental urination. There are many different types of this kind of underwear, and it is a misconception to believe that all such undergarments are bulky and could be called adult diapers. While there are some styles that feel and look like a diaper, there are a lot of underwear styles, or briefs, which are reusable and more attractive in appearance. For long-term incontinence issues, these may be a better choice.

Disposable incontinence underwear is usually available by size, and those who do not care for the full brief style can also find a number of pads. These pads are similar to sanitary napkins which will soak up a fairly large amount of urine and can be more easily changed. Nevertheless, some find the briefs helpful and have benefited from advances in construction and more breathable material that can make wearing them more comfortable. Many briefs are slimmer and better fitting, so they are smoother and more discreet underneath clothing.

Reusable incontinence briefs are another option, and are available for men, women and older children, and come in a variety of materials and styles. For women, there is no need to stick with large coverall underwear since there are styles available that enhance femininity with lacy looks. Men can even choose between briefs or boxers when picking out protective underwear. It is important to find out how the different styles of incontinence underwear work. Some are waterproof and leak-proof and are meant to be worn with incontinence pads. Some individuals use pads with any style to provide added protection. And, other styles may be worn without any pads at all. Most styles will have a rating which suggests how much liquid they can hold.

While looking like an average pair of briefs on the outside, the inner layers of incontinence underwear may have material such as vinyl and polyester. These materials absorb a certain amount of urine, but keep it from leaking out of the pants or onto surrounding clothing. Some briefs are treated with a material that helps reduce urine odor. It still may be necessary to have some extra pairs when traveling since the briefs should be changed once they are wet. But, many individuals like the fact that these protective underwear look more like regular underwear and keep incontinence a private issue.

How do I Choose the Best Incontinence Underwear?

Choosing the best incontinence underwear is often a matter of how well it absorbs, but other factors such as how comfortable it is, as well as how it looks under clothing may also be considered. In other words, how well it fits an individual’s body and lifestyle are the main considerations to determine. Also, one type of brief may be better for daytime use while another type is better for sleeping. In essence, it is a personal choice, but there are things to think about when making that choice.

One of the most important features is how much urine the protective underwear can absorb before it leaks. For minor incontinence, the underwear usually does not need to absorb much liquid before a bathroom can be reached. But for serious loss of bladder control, a thicker brief may be necessary. Making sure the design and size of the underwear are an appropriate fit is important as well. An individual may even consider trying the diaper out at home before wearing it out in public.

How do I Choose the Best Overnight Incontinence Diaper?

Nocturnal enuresis, called nighttime incontinence, affects at least 2% of adults in their older age. Nighttime incontinence can happen for a variety of reasons, such as family history of the problem or a urological disorder. It can also be caused by not making enough of a certain hormone which tells the kidneys to decrease the amount of urine produced at night, or by having a bladder with a reduced capacity. To better manage nighttime incontinence, choose an extra absorbent brief or diaper specifically made for overnight use.

The best overnight diaper will make the individual feel more comfortable, protect delicate skin, provide a sense of security, keep bedding dry, and keep the individual from waking up. The best diaper also has a top liner which draws urine away from the skin. It is designed to handle a higher volume of fluid, and is generally available in a variety of different absorbencies. Another consideration is the overnight diaper’s wearability, how it feels against the skin. Some waterproof material on the outside of some styles may cause an individual to feel overheated. Depending on mobility and dexterity, a pull on design may be preferred, or a style with tab closures is easier to use. Some experts say that for those who are prone to skin irritation, a disposable type may be a better option.

Hulet Smith, OT
Rehabmart Co-Founder & CEO

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