What Is the Best Thing to Wear for Incontinence?

Incontinence is more common than you think. You are not alone—millions of people experience urine leaks at some stage of life, whether it’s due to age, medical conditions, or childbirth.

Whilst it can feel isolating, incontinence doesn't need to get in the way of you living your life. Managing incontinence is simple once you know what to wear. From light leaks to heavier issues, there are products designed to fit your lifestyle and needs. This post will guide you through the best options for managing incontinence comfortably and effectively.

Incontinence Pants

Incontinence pants, also known as protective underwear or pull-ups, are a popular choice for those dealing with moderate to severe incontinence. They can be disposable or reusable incontinence underwear, designed for men or women. They resemble regular underwear but feature absorbent layers designed to capture leaks and prevent discomfort.

Reusable incontinence pants

Comfortable and discreet, washable incontinence pants are designed to look and feel like regular underwear, so no one can tell you’re wearing them. They can be rinsed then washed in your machine alongside the rest of your washing. 

Pros: 

They allow you to carry on as normal, they create no extra rubbish in your bins and are easy to carry with you - just use a wetbag. They are less bulky than disposables and won't make any noises. Simple to use if you have limited mobility. Perfect for long walks, bike rides, and exercise.

Cons:

They are less absorbent than disposable pants so better for light to moderate bladder weakness or occasional leaks, some may find washing them taxing. For any faecal incontinence they would need to be pulled back down your legs unless you opt for a side opening incontinence style.

"Well made: Great design. Lovely shape sporty black knickers made from lovely material. The design ensures those of us with bladder, bowel and/or gyne issues feel very secure. The pop studs at the sides are ingenious! Facilitates easy changing of knickers in an enclosed space. No need to get undressed. Absolutely fabulous." Karen, Trustpilot Jan '24

Disposable incontinence pants

Essentially an underwear shaped nappy for adults, highly absorbent and leak proof even for heavy incontinence. Sometimes comes with elasticated sides for pulling up and down and can be ripped off when needed.

Pros:

High absorbency so excellent for people dealing with heavier leaks, offering all-day protection. 

Cons:

Single use incontinence pants can be more expensive than pads or liners due to their design and absorbency, storing them in bulk takes up space at home. They are less eco-friendly, disposable pants create waste that contributes to landfill. They can be rustly and hot to wear.

Incontinence Liners & Pads

Liners and pads are another effective option, particularly for those who experience light to moderate incontinence, or who need to change often when they are out and about. They stick (disposables) or popper (reusables) inside regular underwear to provide a layer of protection against leaks.

Reusable incontinence pads

Discreet, slim, absorbent pads made with layers of fabric and a waterproof backing designed to catch any leaks, easy to popper into your underwear and easy to change. Just rinse and wash along with your every day washing, no extra fuss or waste!

Pros:

Convenient and easy to change, can choose length, affordable. Easy to wash and store, compact when taking out and about.

Cons:

Bigger upfront costs than disposable pads but can be reused for years, may move around if pants are not snug. Can be tricky to popper in for anyone with mobility issues, better in briefs than boxer shorts.

Disposable incontinence pads

Just like reusable incontinence liners but you use them once and throw them away. They stick to your pants and absorb light to moderate leaks.

Pros:

These are typically less expensive than incontinence pants and come in large packs. Easy to change throughout the day, making them a good option for people who need quick adjustments. Thin and comfortable, liners and pads can be easily worn without adding bulk.

Cons:

Limited absorbency so not ideal for heavier leaks or overnight use, pads may not stay perfectly in place, depending on your activity level. Can feel sweaty and cause chafing.

Interlabia Pads

Fabric pads, or between-labia pads are useful for women with small spurts of urine or flooding menstrual flow. These pads are placed between the labia to absorb leaks directly at the source. They’re particularly useful for women who experience mild leaks, especially during physical activity or sneezing. 

Pros:

These pads provide direct absorption where leaks happen, making them very efficient for light incontinence. Small, compact, and undetectable under clothing.

Cons:

Only suitable for light leaks and women, so they don’t offer a universal solution. Because of their placement, you might need to adjust them during the day.

Guards

Incontinence guards, also known as drip protectors, are worn inside your normal underwear to catch light leaks. Designed specifically for men, they can help manage post-void dribble or other mild forms of incontinence.

Pros:

Discreet and slim and designed to fit inside men’s underwear without being noticeable. 

Cons:

Not for heavy leaks, so they may not offer enough protection for more severe cases. Not suitable for women so not universally useful.

Condom Catheter

A condom catheter is an external device that fits over the penis like a condom and collects urine, which is then drained into a leg bag. This is a good option for men dealing with moderate to severe incontinence.

Pros:

Unlike internal catheters, condom catheters are easy to use and less likely to cause infections as they are non invasive. They can be worn for extended periods, providing continuous protection for those who need it.

Cons:

They require regular cleaning and care to prevent infections and skin irritation. The leg bag and tubing can be noticeable, which may affect how discreet it is compared to other options.

Additional Protection and Prevention

Protective Underpads

While not something you wear, waterproof bed mats or chair covers are a great additional layer of security for those who want to protect furniture, mattresses, or car seats from leaks. These pads can be disposable or reusable, depending on your preference.

Pros:

Extra protection for people with heavier incontinence who worry about leakage onto furniture or bedding.  Reusable underpads can be washed and reused, making them an eco-friendly solution.

Cons:

These are not wearable but supplement your usual incontinence products. Reusable underpads can be large and require regular washing, which may be inconvenient for some users but save money over time.

Pelvic Floor Trainers

The Secret Whispers Kegel Weights for women are like a dumbbell for your pelvic floor. Your pelvic floor muscles need to be exercised.

Pelvic floor exercises can help prevent leaks. When you insert the weights, gravity wants them to fall out, so then your correct pelvic floor muscles engage to hold them in. These weights are often used to enhance muscle strength, retrain pelvic floor muscles, and prevent atrophy.

If you are suffering from any of the conditions below, you may gain improvement from using a Secret Whispers pelvic floor weights and doing kegel exercises:

• Bladder weakness
• Urinary incontinence
• Pelvic organ prolapse
• Lack of sensation during sex
• Pelvic pain
• Weak pelvic floor muscles

There is a closed facebook group you can join as you complete your 90 day challenge.

Whilst navigating incontinence can feel very worrying, it is reassuring to know that there are a range of products designed for all levels of leaks to try and make life a little easier.

If you found this blog useful and want to read more - 

Best incontinence underwear for women

Bladder control and your period

How mindful meditation can help an overactive bladder

If you want to more information about switching to reusable pee and period products, feel free to contact the team. You can drop them a email or use the online chat. The team all use the products themselves and nothing is TMI. We all happily overshare our own experiences.

About the Author: Kirstin loves sea swimming and lives with her three children by the seaside. As part of Cheeky Wipes customer service team she spends most days talking about periods, poo, and pee.