Incontinence 101

Learn the basics of incontinence along with the different types and symptoms of each type.

Articles

Why am I leaking through my products?

First, the product you’re using might be the wrong size. Some customers assume that a larger product is going to have a higher absorbency, but larger products can leave gaps at the waist and leg fitting holes, leading to leaks. A product that fits ju

What are absorbent polymers?

Absorbent polymers are small absorbent beads inside the cores of most incontinent products that soak up the liquid. Most absorbent polymers neutralize the “smell”, giving those with incontinence an added layer of discretion and protection. Typically,

What is urinary incontinence?

Urinary incontinence, or the loss of bladder control, can range from occasional leaks when you exercise, sneeze, cough, or laugh, to urges that are so strong you are unable to make it to a bathroom in time.

What is the best incontinence product for me?

Incontinence products can vary by company, brand, or website, and it can be sometimes difficult to navigate all the differences and find the right product. When researching, you should focus on four incontinence supplies that go by different names: T

What causes urinary incontinence?

When you urinate, the muscles in your bladder contract and move your urine into the urethra, while the muscles around the urethra relax to allow urine to exit the body. Urinary incontinence typically occurs when these muscles relax without warning.

What are the types of urinary incontinence?

The four basic types of incontinence are stress incontinence, urge incontinence, mixed incontinence, and overflow incontinence.

What is stress incontinence?

Stress incontinence refers to physical stress on the bladder or abdomen that forces urine to escape the body. It frequently results from weak pelvic floor muscles but can also be the result of a deficient urethral sphincter due to pregnancy, childbir

What is urge incontinence?

Urge incontinence—often referred to as overactive bladder—occurs when spontaneous contractions release urine and result in a persistent, strong urge to urinate. Urge incontinence can result from stimulants (caffeine, alcohol, and soda), medications,

What is mixed incontinence?

Mixed incontinence is a combination of the traits associated with stress incontinence and urge incontinence. Most women with incontinence experience mixed incontinence.

What is overflow incontinence?

Overflow incontinence occurs when a person is unable to completely empty their bladder, leading to accidental unexpected leaks.

What is bowel incontinence?

Bowel incontinence, or fecal incontinence, refers to involuntary bowel voids.

What is bowel training?

Frequent visits to the bathroom, usually after meals. By having a bowel movement at the same time each day, it’s possible to prevent involuntary voids.

What diet changes can help bowel incontinence?

Fruits and vegetables that are high in fiber minimize constipation by softening the stool. Fiber can also prevent diarrhea by absorbing water, making the stool bulkier.

Are there products designed only for females?

Because female incontinence is so common, there’s a wide range of women's incontinence products designed to provide peace of mind. Women’s products tend to place additional emphasis on discretion, fit, and general appearance, so the wearer can find a

Can UTI's cause incontinence?

Urinary tract infections irritate the bladder lining and make urinary incontinence more likely. More than 10% of women aged 65+ and 30% of women over the age of 85 are affected by UTIs.

Does menopause cause incontinence?

Post-menopausal women are more likely to experience loss of function of the lower urinary tract due to issues with their estrogen levels. Women who took HRT post-menopause are found to be between two and three times more at risk of urinary incontinen

Do prostate issues cause incontinence?

In elderly men, prostatitis (prostate inflammation) can cause urethral pain and urinary frequency. Around two million healthcare appointments in the U.S. are booked each year due to prostatitis.

Are seniors more likely to experience incontinence?

50% of people aged 65+ report bladder or bowel incontinence.