Incontinence is an issue that faces many different types of people; those suffering with medical issues and illnesses, as well as those who are suffering incontinence due to old age. There are many cases of incontinence that can be treated carefully and effectively, but in the meantime (and for those people suffering with incontinence on a permanent basis) incontinence pads and incontinence pants are a fantastic way to alleviate issues and to prevent skin irritation and fungal infections. Learning how to choose the correct incontinence pads and pants and how to fit them will also help with these issues.
There are a lot of reasons why a person might require the use of incontinence pads. It could be purely down to old age and the natural way in which that person’s body is functioning. For other people there has been a lifestyle change that has caused both urinary and faecal incontinence. Women who have recently given birth sometimes suffer from bladder weakness post-birth, requiring incontinence pads to help them during this period. Other reasons could relate to people suffering from Alzheimer’s or dementia, losing control of bodily functions, such as their bowel and/or bladder. Injuries to the groin, to the nerves or muscle in that area, can also sometimes be a reason for incontinence issues.
There are so many types of incontinence pads on the market that it can be difficult to comprehend the sheer range and which type of pad you should choose. This can be difficult if you are the person in need of an incontinence pad, or if you are a carer with the responsibility of choosing and fitting an incontinence pad or incontinence pants.
Incontinence pads are made with a top layer that is dry, providing a clean and dry surface that goes against the skin of the person wearing it, allowing for great levels of comfort. The fluff section is made up of long fluff fibres that help to spread urine through the pad and prevents it from building up and sitting in one place. The Super Absorbent Polymer (SAP) is a material that reduces the amount of required fluff and makes it thinner. Pads with SAP are more attractive to those looking for discretion when wearing incontinence pads. The textile back sheet is waterproof, ensuring the balance of comfort and waterproof properties. The best incontinence pads will also have an indicator to alert when a pad requires changing.
When fitting an incontinence pad, it is important to make sure they don’t leak. The best method for fitting an incontinence pad with this in mind is to employ the ‘pinch, pinch, pull’ method. It is especially important to look at the method used to fit incontinence pads if they have been leaking on a regular basis. Choosing the right incontinence pad for your needs will go a long way to helping you ensure there is no leakage and that the pads or incontinence pants are fitted correctly.
