Incontinence Products & Supplies for Men & Women

What is Incontinence?

When the urinary system is functioning normally, bladder muscles restrict to move urine to the urethra. Simultaneously, the muscles around the urethra relax to allow urine to pass through. Urinary incontinence occurs when some or all of these muscles are not contracting properly, either because signals to the muscles misfire or a physical problem with the muscles themselves, resulting in unwanted urine leakage. Although incontinence is a significant challenge, it is not a medical condition in and of itself; it is a symptom of an underlying condition that can be managed in multiple ways including prescription medication, surgery, and over-the-counter incontinence supplies.

Related Terminology

Neurogenic Bladder - a dysfunction that results from interference with the normal nerve pathways associated with urination.

Bladder Training - The use of behavioral therapy to manage an overactive bladder, ex: not urinating for 10 or 15 minutes, to re-accustom the bladder to holding larger volumes.

*Sourced from https://medical-dictionary.thefreedictionary.com/

Stress Incontinence

Involuntary leakage of urine from the bladder accompanying physical activity, like laughing, coughing, sneezing, or physical exercise, which places increased pressure on the abdomen.

Urge Incontinence

Urinary or fecal incontinence preceded by a sudden, uncontrollable impulse to evacuate; often a complaint of patients with urinary tract infections and in some women before the onset of menstruation.

Overflow Incontinence

When something will not allow the bladder to completely void of urine, excessive pressure causes frequent or constant dribbling known as overflow incontinence. Causes can include prostate enlargement, diabetes and spinal cord injuries.

Functional Incontinence

This type of incontinence occurs despite normally functioning physiology, when a person cannot access a toilet. Common causes include cognitive disabilities like dementia or Alzheimer's disease and physical impairment like severe arthritis.

Reflex Incontinence

Involuntary voiding that occurs when the bladder muscles contract and release urine without warning or an urge to urinate; Commonly associated with neurological conditions like Multiple Sclerosis, spinal cord injuries, or damage caused by radiation or surgery.

Causes of Urinary Incontinence in Adults

Certain factors increase your risk of developing urinary incontinence including age, gender, body weight, tobacco use, family history, and some disease. Generally, women are more likely to develop incontinence as they age due to the weakening of the pelvic floor muscles during childbirth and menopause; however men with prostate disease also have an increased likelihood. Other conditions such as neurological disorders and diabetes may also increase the risk of developing incontinence despite gender or age.

Common Temporary Causes

• Urinary Tract Infections;
• Constipation;
• Natural diuretics causing high volume of urine including:
• Heart and blood pressure medications
• Sedatives and muscle relaxers
• Large doses of Vitamin C
• Alcohol
• Coffee, tea, and other caffeinated beverages
• Sparkling water
• Chocolate
• Chili peppers
• Citrus fruit and other foods high in acid
• Artificial sweeteners
• Foods high in spice or sugar

Common Persistent Causes

• Pregnancy and Childbirth
• Aging Bladder and Menopause
• Enlarged Prostate or Prostate Cancer
• Physiological Obstruction such as a tumor or urinary stones
• Neurological Disorders such as Multiple Sclerosis, Parkinson's Disease, stroke, brain tumor, or spinal injury

Incontinence Treatment

Treating incontinence involves identifying and resolving the underlying condition but it can be managed in multiple ways. Options can include surgical intervention, medications, bladder retraining, and strengthening exercises. By maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding bladder-irritating foods and beverages, limiting caffeine intake, increasing fiber intake, and quitting smoking, the risk of developing incontinence may decrease.

Treatment plans may include:

• Kegel Exercises - Pelvic muscle strengthening;
• Lifestyle changes - dietary conscientiousness, weight management, and/or smoking cessation;
• Body Awareness - Bladder training, biofeedback;
• Bulking Agents like collagen or Botox; 
• Surgery;
• Incontinence Products to manage incidents.

*Information sourced from Mayoclinic.org

Protective Underwear

Adult diapers, mesh underwear, and reusable protective undergarments offer full protection in many discreet and fashionable styles.

Bed Pads & Underpads

Reusable and disposable bed pads and underpads offer protection for mattresses, furniture, and car seats.

Pads, Shields & Guards

Made for both men and women, incontinence pads and guards wick away moisture and absorb odors for conditions ranging from light to heavy.

Wipes & Washcloths

Disposable incontinence wipes and washcloths stave away unwanted skin rashes and irritations while keeping you fresh, clean, and comfortable.

Skin Care & Deodorizers

Skincare is critical to managing the effects of incontinence. Odor-fighting cleansers and deodorizers keep you feeling fresh and confident.