Absorbents – Disposables
Many are familiar with disposable absorbents. There are many levels of protection that can be afforded through disposable absorbents. The following may help give a better understanding of options available.
 |
Padsprovide a minimal level of protection. They work well with small amounts of leakage that may be caused by stress incontinence. Pads generally have an adhesive strip that secures them to brief type underwear, are small, discreet and easily carried and changed. |
|
 |
UndergarmentsWhen you need a higher level of protection than a pad can provide but still have a family limited amount of leakage, an undergarment can be used. They are longer than a normal pad, are worn in underwear alone, or can attach to elastic straps that button or Velcro on, or have a built in waistband. |
|
|
BriefsA brief is worn for heavier incontinence. The brief is the most common disposable type of absorbent. The brief fully replaces normal underwear. They are generally secured by tape at the hip area. |
|
 |
UnderwearLike the Brief, underwear is worn for heavier incontinence. It is different than the brief in that it does not secure at the sides. It is fitted like normal undergarments and is generally pulled up and on just like normal underwear. |
Why use absorbents?
Features
|
Cost
The cost varies considerably due to difference in cost for degrees of absorbency, size of the absorbent, and personal preference for changing. The costs below provide an estimated range of possibilities
| Cost | Cost After Insurance | |
| Estimated average cost | $ 1,200 to $1800 / yr | na |
| ** Not covered by insurance |
More Information
Absorbency
All disposable absorbents are not the same. You can purchase inexpensive briefs that will absorb approximately 15 ounces of liquid or you can pay a little more for briefs that can hold up to approximately 45 ounces of liquid.
At night time the high capacity ones work very well allowing you to sleep though the night dry without interruption. The lower capacity briefs can be used during the day when changing frequently is a more appealing option.
Wicking
Wicking is the ability of liquid to transfer from a wet area to a dry area. Cotton is excellent at wicking. A cloth cotton absorbent will eventually transfer liquid to the point total saturation.
Unfortunately, disposable absorbents do not wick near as well. They become saturated in the crotch and leave much of the rest of the brief dry. When the crotch becomes oversaturated, they leak. Although the premium higher absorbent ones wicker better than the low capacity ones, they still can not match the absorbency of a cotton one.
Size
Sized to standard waist sizes.
Tricks and tips
Plastic Pants
Disposable absorbents are not designed for use with plastic pants. Plastic pants are usually worn with cotton cloth absorbents.
Tapes
Although tapes can be undone and refastened it is best not to do this. Most tapes, including the refastenable ones, become set after a while and lose some of there adhesive power. It is better to leave in place while checking the absorbent. For using the toilet, it may be better bet to slide the absorbent down like underpants, rather than disturb the tapes.
Extended Wear Time and/or Boosting Capacity
When you need extended wear time you can one of two things. The first is to wear a high capacity premium priced absorbent. It will extend wear time 2 the 3 times. The second is to wear a special booster pad within your absorbent.
Note: do not use a standard pad or you will be very disappointed. For longest wear time wear both a high capacity premium absorbent and a special booster inside it.
Rustling or Diaper Noise
Some absorbents are quieter than others. Generally the higher priced ones work better. However, anything you wear over the disposables will cut down on sound. Simply wearing cotton underwear, especially boxer briefs, will greatly reduce noise.
Overnight & Bedwetting
Keeping the pajamas and the bed dry all night is a major challenge.
If you do not want to set an alarm clock then extra protection is in order to get through the night. Although a extra heavy cloth absorbent might be the best solution, there are times or reasons to use a disposable absorbent.
If you choose sleeping through the night dry, the best solution is to use a high capacity premium disposable absorbent. They work well for overnight. If you need even more protection add a special booster.
It always helps not to drink anything a couple of hours before bedtime.
In case of accidents, you should use a complete mattress cover or at least a plastic draw sheet to protect the bed. In addition place a towel over the area that you sleep or a disposable pad.
Learning Curve
It takes time to find out what works best for you. Be patient and don’t be afraid to experiment until you can find a solution that works best for you. Whatever you choose, don’t hesitate to call for advice or support.
Will insurance cover disposable absorbents?
Insurance will not cover disposable absorbents.
Examples of Combinations of Dryness Management
Example 1 – Day Strategy –Plan your day based on times you know you can easily make a change. If you know you need to go 6 hours one time and 3 hours another time, you might want to use a high capacity disposable for the 6 hour time and a low capacity time.
Example 2 – Night Strategy – You might want to use a reusable heavy duty cotton absorbent at night and disposables during the day.
Example 2 – Backup - After you have mastered the technique of wearing an external catheter, when you want to make sure you are safe, wear an absorbent brief as backup. You will stay dry most of the time and if an accident occurs, you won’t be embarrassed. You can reuse the brief again and again because most the time it never gets wet.
Example 3 – Air Time – You need to give your penis some air time each day from wearing an external catheter. During this time wear an absorbent brief.
Example 5 – Day/Night Use – To give the skin time to air and rest consider wearing the external catheter and leg bag only during the day while active and wearing a heavy duty absorbent at night.
