Urinary or Fecal incontinence is a medical issue faced by almost 400 million people worldwide. Prevalent among old age, this health issue can affect many adolescents at some point in life. According to statistics, one in four women above the age of 18 faces urinary incontinence involuntarily. Twenty-four percent of women between the ages of 18 and 44 may experience urine leakage. Although this issue is twice as common in females than in men, incontinency affects almost 5 percent of men globally.
Sudden incontinence can occur due to urinary tract infection, vaginal irritations, constipation, or certain medications. Prolonged issues may arise due to weak and overactive bladder muscles or diseases like diabetes, Parkinson’s, arthritis, or Prostatitis. Multiple pregnancies, excess weight, or genetic reasons can enhance the risk of this health problem. Unfortunately, incontinence gives rise to adverse changes in self-image and decreased self-confidence. Feelings of embarrassment and guilt are often associated with it.
Despite the high prevalence and social implications, incontinency is not a priority in the healthcare sector. Although treatments like exercises, injections, surgery, and medication are available, people are reluctant to visit a healthcare provider out of shame. Adult diapers thus become the most convenient, cost-effective, and simple ways to manage incontinence.
Selecting A Diaper
Choosing the right diaper can be tricky. With so many available brands and each one promising the most effectiveness, it’s confusing getting a perfect fit. Here are a few such features that will help you to decide upon which diaper to purchase.
1. Types
Adult diapers are found in two styles, in general. For people who experience heavy incontinence, low mobility, and are dependent on a caregiver, adult briefs are the best option that fits perfectly and prevents leakages. Pull-up versions are for people who want light incontinence protection and are active. These are quite discreet and adjust more like underwear.
2. Absorbency And Usage
This feature is a fundamental yet most vital requirement while getting a diaper. People suffering from high incontinency should opt for diapers with high absorption capacity but still keep them dry. This way, it can prevent skin irritations and rashes that often develop using wet diapers. For others, a diaper with medium absorption is just right. Select diapers according to their applications. You may require extended wear or daytime diapers while you’re at work. One may need nighttime diapers at night that help in absorbing more urine, one likely to release during sleeping.
3. Available Sizes
Just like any other wearable products, diapers come in various sizes. Small, medium, large, or extra-large is the available sizes that fit all body types. Before purchasing, take waist and hip measurement for a better fit. Remember, choosing small sizes can make you feel uncomfortable, and bigger sizes can lead to leakages.
4. Comfort Level
Diapers are often used for a prolonged time. Either you’re very active or spend a lot of time in bed, comfort is essential. The ideal diaper should have the correct size and comfortable wear. For this, the material used should be breathable and soft like cloth that ensures no skin problems.
5. Odor Control
Most people avoid using diapers as they are concerned about the distinct smell of urine. Using diapers for a long time can increase the chance of smelling. The user is self-conscious about having social interactions and going out. It is also tough to maintain proper hygiene, as there can be bacterial growth in wet diapers. Picking-up high-quality diapers manage incontinence and reduce the growth of microbes, thus controlling the odor and infections.
6. Discretion
Handling your incontinence with adult nappies is the discreet way to do so. Avoid choosing a brand that is bulky or colorful. Try something that is easy-to-wear, has the right fit, and slim enough to maintain a high absorption but easy to hide.
7. Cost
Incontinence supplies can cost USD 300 to 400 per month at a minimum. Managing these expenses can be demanding as a lot of discretionary incomes are spent purchasing adult nappies. By fixing a budget, buying products that offer 3x absorbency and perfect fitting can reduce unnecessary costs. Besides, using booster pads, also known as diaper doubler, you can extend a diaper’s life and reduce the number of diapers used in a day.
8. Leakage Control
The most common reason for leakage is the wrong selection of incontinence products. It is preferable to choose gender-specific diapers to fit perfectly. Also, wearing diapers for a longer duration can increase the chance of leaking. A few brands offer features like quick absorption and moisture-indicators to denote the wetness levels and prevent potential leakage.
Conclusion
Picking the right diaper requires patience. It may also need some hits and misses before finding the right product. Keep in mind incontinency can lower down the morale and hamper the confidence of your loved ones. Help them overcome their fear, encourage them to speak, and guide them to use adult diapers for a dignified and stress-free life.