Essential Products to Manage Incontinence For Everyone

Have you ever faced an urgency to visit the restroom while busy shopping, or did you rush to the office washroom in the middle of a meeting? The sudden uncontrolled urge to urinate can make you restless and affect your day-to-day life, and is called urinary incontinence.

Urinary incontinence (UI) affects countless women across the globe, yet it is often seen as a problem only for the elderly. In reality, younger women can also experience this condition. The key to managing UI lies in early diagnosis and timely treatment, which starts with recognizing the symptoms as soon as they appear.

In this article, we’ll explore urinary incontinence in detail and various products and treatments available to help manage this condition effectively. Whether you are experiencing UI personally or supporting someone who is, this information can help you treat the condition better. Read on to discover more!

Read More: Managing Overactive Bladder: Lifestyle Changes That Help.

Urinary Incontinence in Women

Urinary incontinence occurs due to weak or malfunctioning muscles and nerves that control bladder function. Women may experience involuntary urine leakage during activities like laughing, coughing, or strenuous exercises. Others might feel a sudden, strong urge to urinate regardless of what they’re doing. While a few others may leak urine during sexual activity, often causing emotional distress.

Factors such as obesity can worsen the condition as it adds pressure to the abdominal muscles. Weight loss can help reduce symptoms, however, it is essential to consult a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment.

In a shocking estimate, a study found that 24% to 45% of women older than 30 suffer from urinary incontinence. This statistic makes it imperative for us to understand the causes and treatment options to manage incontinence.

Causes of Urinary Incontinence In Women:

Several factors affect or worsen the condition of urinary incontinence. Here are a few significant factors:

• Pregnancy and Post-Delivery: Urinary incontinence can be caused by hormonal changes during pregnancy or childbirth. A few factors, including the weight of the baby or childbirth (both vaginal and C-Section), contribute to incontinence.
• Number of Deliveries: The risk of urinary incontinence increases with the number of children due to continuous pressure exerted on the pelvic floor. Certain hormonal changes, potential trauma during childbirth, and age-related challenges also worsen the condition of urinary incontinence.
• Post-Menopause: Post-menopausal women often see a drop in estrogen levels, which leads to weak bladder control
  Read More: 8 Ways To Deal With Night Sweats After Menopause
• Obesity: Obesity causes urinary incontinence as the extra weight places pressure on the abdominal and pelvic muscles. This worsens the condition.

Treatment options for urinary incontinence include medications, surgery, exercise, diet, and lifestyle changes.

Causes Of Urinary Incontinence in Men:

Various factors affect and cause urinary incontinence in men, ranging from medical conditions and medications to lifestyle habits.

Medical Conditions:

• Prostate Issues: When the prostate is inflamed, it leads to a condition called prostatitis, or an enlarged prostate can lead to incontinence. Both the prostate issues cause incontinence in men.
• Nerve Damage: Injuries or conditions affecting the nerves that regulate bladder function, including spinal cord injuries, strokes, multiple sclerosis, or Parkinson’s disease, can cause incontinence.
• Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): UTIs can trigger incontinence in men similar to women.
• Kidney or Bladder Stones: These kidney or bladder stones can irritate the bladder and result in urinary incontinence in men.

Medications

• Diuretics: Certain medications like diuretics, along with substances such as alcohol, caffeine, and carbonated drinks, promote urine production and lead to incontinence.
• Heart and Blood Pressure Medications: Some heart and blood pressure medications also cause incontinence.

Products to Help with Incontinence

A variety of products are available for both men and women. These products can be used individually or in combination to provide relief. They are designed for flexibility and can be easily integrated into daily routines for added convenience.

Read More: 7 Natural Remedies for Incontinence

Here are a few products that help manage incontinence in women:

Urinary Incontinence Devices For Women

There are several devices designed to address urinary incontinence, specifically tailored to women’s needs. These include both internal and external options, each having a unique function:

• Absorbent Pads: Incontinence pads are absorbent materials worn with underwear to effectively manage leaks. While women are generally more accustomed to using pads during menstruation, men also benefit from these products. Pads are highly effective and user-friendly, offering various options for individual needs. Buy one of the popular absorbent pads
• Pessaries: These are reusable devices designed to be inserted into the vagina to support the bladder and apply pressure to the urethra, preventing leaks. Pessaries, like rings, cubes, or dishes, come in various shapes and sizes. It may take a few attempts with your healthcare provider to find the best fit.
• Internal Urethral Inserts: Urethral inserts are another option to block urine flow. An insert is a small tapon-like disposable device inserted into the urethra. Some women use it throughout the day, while others use it during certain activities such as exercise or outdoor activities. To avoid infection, a new sterile device must be used each time.
• External Urethral Devices: These devices are non-invasive and utilize a gentle adhesive or mild suction to help prevent urine leakage. They are a great option for temporary relief. If you wish to buy a similar urethral device, check this
• Catheter: When your bladder does not empty properly, you might experience incontinence issues. This is when your doctor might recommend using a catheter. A catheter is a soft lube inserted into your urethra throughout the day to drain your bladder. Ensure that the catheters are clean before each use to avoid infections.

These devices offer a range of solutions for women experiencing urinary incontinence, each designed to improve comfort and control. However, proper consultation with a healthcare provider is crucial for opting for the right and effective device.

Read More: Empowering Women: Understanding Hormonal Changes Through Life Stages

Urinary Incontinence Devices For Men

For men dealing with incontinence, there are various products and devices available to help manage the condition. These help prevent accidents and improve quality of life, providing both comfort and convenience.  Here are some of the most commonly used products:

• Incontinence Pads And Absorbent Products: Similar to the absorbent pads used by women, men also have a range of absorbent products, including pads. These help prevent leaks, control odor, and prevent skin irritation. You can either opt for an absorbent pad, adult diaper, or absorbent underwear. Selecting the right product depends on the severity of the incontinence. However, finding the perfect one takes some experimentation, and your doctor can guide you in choosing the best fit.
• External Catheters: External catheters are silicone or latex devices worn over the penis. These help to redirect urine into a drainage bag and are typically used at night. Ensuring proper fit is essential to prevent leaks and spills. These are a convenient option for people who have difficulty reaching the bathroom.
• Drainage Bags: Drainage bags are plastic bags attached to external catheters to collect urine. Bedside bags are larger; smaller ones can be worn on the body. Choosing the right bag size and attachment method ensures comfort and avoids leaks.
• Underpads: These pads don’t need to be worn over the body, but placed under it. These waterproof pads are placed on furniture or mattresses to protect against leaks. They add an extra layer of protection and are easily disposable.
• Urinal and Toilet Substitutes: In case of limited access to the bathroom, portable plastic urinals can be used for emergencies. This helps people with urinary incontinence in the absence of a restroom.
• Penile Clamps: Penile clamps are devices that apply gentle pressure to temporarily close the urethra and stop leakage. These are used for short periods to avoid discomfort or complications and can provide relief. However, these should be used under medical guidance.
• Fecal Products: Fecal products are mostly used by people who experience leakage in their bowel passages. Common devices include plugs, pads, and collector bags.
• Toilet Aids: These devices are specially designed for those who are unable to sit on the toilet seat. Urinals, bed pans, bidets, etc., can be held by hand.

All the above products help men effectively manage urinary incontinence. Choosing the right aid helps them lead a confident and stress-free life.

Lifestyle and Home Remedies for Urinary Incontinence

The products mentioned above are a great choice for managing urinary incontinence in men and women. However, certain lifestyle changes also help to improve the situation. Here’s how you can take small steps and better manage the incontinence.

• Improve Toilet Access: Make the toilet accessible, especially at night. You can clear rugs or furniture that may block your path to the bathroom. Also, consider using a night light to reduce fall risks while reaching the bathroom.
• Adapt Your Bathroom: Consider using a bedside commode or installing an elevated toilet seat for easier access.
• Alternative Medicine: While no alternative therapies have been proven to cure urinary incontinence, acupuncture, meditation, and yoga may provide some benefits. More research is needed in this regard.Read More: 20 Health Benefits of Meditation According To Science. 
• Coping and Support: You might feel embarrassed about the incontinence situation, and it is natural. However, you can cope by using aids such as absorbent pads or adult diapers on the go. Don’t hesitate to consult your doctor to regain control and confidence.
• Odour Control, Clothing, and Skin Care: You may want to modify certain clothing, like adding zippers to pajamas or wearing skirts. Special underwear that holds pads and other devices is also available. Options are also available to control odor and provide relief from skin irritation.

When Is Surgical Intervention Necessary?

If incontinence is severe, interventional therapies are an option. These therapies include bulking material injections to support the urethra, Botox injections for treating overactive bladder, and nerve stimulators to control bladder function.

For more permanent solutions, you can consider surgical options such as sling procedures, bladder neck suspension, prolapse surgery, or implanting an artificial sphincter. These solutions help manage severe incontinence.

Meet with your healthcare provider to assess the best solution for your needs.

Read More: What Does Cloudy Urine Mean? Cloudy Urine Causes and Treatments.