Incontinence is caused by numerous factors, spanning from pregnancy to surgery to cognitive issues. Whatever the reason, investing in products that promise to protect you from leaks is crucial to your well-being.
The right absorbent products will keep you dry and give you the confidence to partake in various activities. These include running errands, walking, yoga, and other active workouts. No matter what your leakage requirements are, there are products bespoke to your needs, and finding them is easier than ever.
In this guide, we give insight into sourcing quality protective wear. Read on to discover more.
Consider the Level of Protection you Need
Not all incontinence products are the same. Some are designed with light leakage in mind, while others are suited to those who require a higher absorbency level. Considering the amount and frequency of your leakage will help you to pick the right product.
Another consideration?
The activities you will be partaking in on certain days. For example, if working out, diaper booster pads are a significant investment.
Why?
These absorbent inserts heighten the performance of your regular, day-to-day incontinence products, including protective briefs and disposable diapers. They feature a porous back sheet, which ensures leakage is soaked up immediately.
Why the Right Protective Wear is Crucial When Working Out
Living with incontinence can cause you to limit the life you once had – avoiding social events, missing work, avoiding long-distance travel, and distancing yourself from family and friends. With this in mind, it is no surprise that your daily workouts are affected. Research suggests that 20% of women have reported quitting their physical activities due to incontinence. Why? When we exercise, we put more pressure on our bladders, which can cause unexpected leakage.
Why is Leakage More Apparent When Working Out?
Stress Urinary Incontinence (SUI) is one of the leading causes of bladder leakage when working out. It affects those who have a weak sphincter muscle or pelvic floor. This causes heightened pressure on your bladder.
If you’re an active individual, don’t cancel your gym membership! There are various incontinence products available. All promise to safeguard you during fitness classes, runs in the park with friends, yoga, and more. The best part? You get to continue with your fitness routine while staying dry.
Consider Comfort
Women and men have different requirements when it comes to incontinence. Pick a product explicitly designed for your body type. From choosing the right size to the correct style, all of these factors will affect your comfort. When working out, the last thing you want is to deal with products that move around, slide down, or dig into your skin. Thankfully, numerous styles are available, some of which we have listed below:
1. Pull-Up Diapers and Step-In Pants
Available in moderate and maximum absorbances, pull-up diapers are a more accessible option for both men and women. They’re less suited to those who have mobility issues. Why? Getting in and out of them can be a challenge.
2. Incontinence Underwear
If you’re searching for a discreet option that allows you to feel confident wearing protective wear and continue working out, incontinence underwear is a game changer. It looks and feels like real underwear, but it offers extra protection. Various designs and colors are available, and the packaging is discreet, too. This underwear is designed with body shape in mind to ensure the right contours and fit. It’s an ideal option for those who only experience leakage when putting extra strain on their bodies, such as in a fitness class.
3. Adjustable Underwear
Adjustable underwear is an alternative to pull-ups or those in between sizes. The handy tabs can be tightened or loosened to ensure a snug yet comfortable fit. In addition to providing various absorbency levels, they allow for discreet changes, as you don’t need to remove shoes or pants. This style is perfect for the active individual or those on the go.
4. Booster Pads
This is an excellent option for those who tend to suffer from more leakage when working out. Combine with your existing incontinence products to add an extra layer of protection, meaning you can continue to embrace active days without worry.
Retrain Your Bladder
Another thing you can do to help with incontinence when working out is to retrain your bladder. After all, it is a muscle. Scheduling bathroom visits in intervals, then working up to more extended periods is a great way to avoid unexpected leaks from occurring.
The Bottom Line
Just because you suffer from incontinence, this doesn’t mean you have to stop doing the things you love or avoid working out. With the right protective products, you can lessen leakages and boost your confidence levels.
When considering protective wear for incontinence, consider the style, the fit, and your level of activeness. Determining these factors will help you choose a product that fits your needs perfectly. With various absorbent products available on today’s market, it’s wise to experiment with styles and fits to see which works for you and your lifestyle.
