Managing Urinary Incontinence: Incontinence Pads- which type are best for me?

Swamped in a minefield of different options, it could be easy to get lost. But don’t despair! In this blog we will consider the pros and cons of the three main personal incontinence products:

1. All in Ones

2. Pull Ups

3. Shaped Pads

We want you to find the product that’s best for you! Properly managed, incontinence doesn’t have to control your life. In a later blog, we will also discuss other helpful incontinence products.

• 1. All in Ones / Adult Nappies                                                                            

As the name suggests, these are a one piece incontinence product. Designed similarly to children’s nappies, these are more adjustable than pull ups with their adjustable side tapes. These are available with higher absorbencies than pull ups and are very secure preventing too many leakages.

Some find that it’s tricky to fit the product themselves with an all in one, favouring a pull up, but all in ones are ideal for carers to fit as there isn’t the need for the patient to step into the underwear.

All in ones are ideal for those who have moderate to heavy incontinence and want to stay secure, comfortable and confident .

• 2.Pull Ups                                                                                                            

Again, like all in ones, Pull ups are a one piece system . The difference is that these are fitted like normal underwear. Many choose these because they don’t interfere with normal daily activities being easy to pull up and remove for toileting. The downsides are that compared with all in ones, they don’t go as high with absorbency capacity, a little more prone to leaks and can be more expensive per unit.

• 3.Shaped Pads with Fixing Pants                                                                      

A good all-rounder, shaped pads with fixation pads are our most popular incontinence products. Not only are shaped pads the cheapest option, they also come in the widest range of absorbency from light to heavy, and sizes 1-4 can even be used in regular underwear. Shaped pads are the least bulky option and, when fitted correctly are the most secure and least likely to leak . There is also a range of types of fixing pants to choose from so the user can find the most comfortable option for them. Look out for our future post explaining the different types of fixation underwear.

Picture: Various Types of Fixing Pants

You can view our full range of  all in ones, pull up pants and shaped pads here to find a product that is suitable for you.

If you need any assistance in choosing the right product for you, one of our friendly staff members would be happy to help. Call us on 01842 766087.