Continence products and aids

Continence products such as pads, pants, catheters, sheath drainage or bed protection can provide comfort, confidence and support for people managing incontinence.

Continence products are designed to support people managing bladder or bowel control challenges. They can be used short-term or long-term to support independence at home, work or in the community.

Choosing the right product improves comfort and confidence. Options vary by type of incontinence, physical ability, lifestyle and budget.

Call the National Continence Helpline on 1800 33 00 66 for advice and information about local and national continence product suppliers.

Pads and pants

Products vary in absorbency (how much urine (wee) they hold), fit and style.

Disposable pads

These are worn once then thrown away. They are available from supermarkets, pharmacies and medical suppliers. They are best worn with firm-fitting underwear. Overnight pads are more absorbent – they hold more urine (wee). Follow instructions on the packet for correct disposal (to throw them away safely).

All-in-one pads

All-in-ones come in a wrap-around style with adhesive, re-sealable tabs. They can be helpful for people who find it hard to stand or walk.

Reusable pads, pants and all-in-one pads

These products can be used more than once. They are washable and may be more cost-effective. They should be replaced every 6 to 12 months. These options are more environmentally-friendly.

Helpful tips

• try samples before buying in bulk
• medical suppliers offer more options than supermarkets including buying in bulk, which may cost less
• financial support may be available through government funded financial schemes.

Caring for someone using continence pads

• use disposable gloves when helping with toileting or pad changes
• gently clean and dry the skin each time you change the pad
• apply barrier creams or moisturisers to protect the skin
• be aware that some peoples’ skin can be sensitive and they may have allergic reactions to some products
• if the pad leaks, speak with a nurse continence specialist for advice.

If the skin becomes red or sore, talk to a doctor straightaway to prevent further discomfort.

Bed and chair products

Absorbent pads for beds, chairs, wheelchairs and car seats can help protect furniture and bedding. Options include:

• pads – disposable or reusable with waterproof backing
• covers – fitted waterproof mattress and pillow protectors and quilt covers
• sheets – absorbent bed sheets to help keep skin dry
• bed pads – may help manage urinary (wee) incontinence or bowel (poo) incontinence.

You can view examples of these products through online searches or through larger medical suppliers.

Urinary sheath (condom) drainage for men

Some men choose to use a urinary sheath drainage system instead of pads.

A sheath fits over the penis and the open end connects to a leg bag to collect urine (wee). Daily cleaning is essential.

A nurse continence specialist can help you choose the right type and ensure it fits well to prevent leaks and support comfort.

Catheters

Catheters are an option when other products aren’t suitable. A catheter is a soft tube that drains urine (wee) into a bag. Types include:

• short-term eg after surgery
• long-term – these need to be changed regularly
• suprapubic – inserted through the abdomen (belly) into the top of the bladder
• intermittent – used several times a day.

Catheters are prescribed and managed by health professionals to ensure safety and comfort.

Read about catheters and tips for catheter care.

Equipment to help with toileting

Bedpan

Bedpans are shaped to fit under a person so they can pass urine (wee) or faeces (poo) while lying down or sitting. It’s helpful for people who find it hard to get out of bed.

Urinal bottle

A urinal bottle is a special bottle to urinate (wee) into for people who find it hard to get up from a chair or bed. There are different urinal bottles for men and for women.

Commode

A commode is a toilet chair that can sit over the toilet. It may have wheels so it can be moved around.

Toilet frame

A toilet frame is a frame with armrests to help with sitting and standing when using the toilet. Some toilet frames also have a raised toilet seat.

Grab rails

Grab rails are handrails to help you get on and off the toilet.

What you can do next

• Find continence product suppliers and manufacturers in our Australia-wide directory.
• Learn more about financial support for continence products including Continence Aids Payment Scheme (CAPS).
• Talk to a nurse continence specialist by calling the National Continence Helpline on 1800 33 00 66.
• Read about the Difference between continence pads and period pads.

This content has been reviewed by sub­ject mat­ter experts in line with Continence Health Australia’s established process. Read about our clinical content review protocol.