Women's Incontinence

Incontinence refers to the involuntary loss of control over bladder or bowel functions, resulting in the unintentional leakage of urine or feces. It is a common condition that can affect people of all ages but is more prevalent among the elderly and those with certain medical conditions. Incontinence can have various underlying causes, including weakened pelvic floor muscles, nerve damage, hormonal imbalances, certain medications, urinary tract infections, or structural abnormalities. It can significantly impact an individual's quality of life, leading to embarrassment, social isolation, and decreased self-esteem. However, with proper management and the use of appropriate aids and treatments, individuals with incontinence can maintain their independence and improve their daily living experience.

Female incontinence can be caused by various factors such as pregnancy and childbirth, menopause, aging, pelvic floor muscle weakness, urinary tract infections, neurological conditions, obesity, and other factors like chronic coughing or certain medications. These factors can weaken the pelvic floor muscles, disrupt nerve signals, or put additional pressure on the bladder, leading to loss of bladder control. Seeking medical advice is crucial to identify the underlying cause and explore suitable treatment options for managing female incontinence effectively. There are also products available such as pelvic floor exercisers that work to strengthen the pelvic floor muscles and help to prevent accidents.

Female incontinence aids, such as pads, briefs and external collection devices work by providing support, containment, or absorption to manage urinary incontinence. Incontinence pads and liners have a moisture-absorbing core to quickly absorb and lock in urine, while incontinence briefs offer higher protection with built-in absorbent layers. External collection devices collect urine discreetly. These aids help maintain comfort, prevent leaks, promote hygiene, and enable individuals with incontinence to lead active lives. The choice of aid depends on the severity of incontinence and personal preferences, with guidance from healthcare professionals. We also have a collection of men's incontinence aids available.

Female incontinence pads can benefit individuals who experience urinary incontinence, regardless of age or cause. They can be helpful for women with light to moderate urinary leakage or those who prefer a discreet and convenient solution. Female incontinence pads are suitable for individuals who want a flexible and easily changeable option. They can be particularly beneficial for women during activities that may trigger urine leakage, such as exercise, coughing, or sneezing. Incontinence pads offer protection, absorbency, and odor control, providing comfort and confidence to women managing urinary incontinence. It is always advisable to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the most appropriate solution based on individual needs and preferences.

The frequency of changing incontinence pads can vary depending on the individual's level of urinary leakage and the absorbency of the pad. However, as a general guideline, it is recommended both women and men change incontinence pads every 4 to 6 hours or whenever they become wet or soiled. Regular changing helps maintain hygiene, prevent skin irritation, and minimise the risk of leakage or odour. It is important to choose pads with appropriate absorbency for the individual's needs to ensure optimal performance. Consulting with a healthcare professional can provide personalised recommendations on the frequency of pad changes based on the severity of incontinence and individual circumstances.

Yes, overnight incontinence pads are designed to be worn during sleep. They are more absorbent, larger in size, and have enhanced leakage barriers to provide reliable protection throughout the night. Choosing pads specifically labelled for overnight use helps ensure comfort, dryness and uninterrupted sleep. It's important to consult with a healthcare professional to find the most suitable incontinence pad and management strategy based on individual needs.

If you need help or advice on any of the products in this category, please contact our Expert Advice Team.