For successful incontinence management, it’s important to be aware of the available options in incontinence pants for men and male incontinence products in general.
Urinary incontinence, or the unintentional release of urine, is a very common and often treatable condition that effects about 5 million men. It can be the result of existing medical conditions such as diabetes or enlarged prostate, a temporary condition experienced after surgery, or a condition known as overactive bladder.
Medical treatments can help, so it’s important to discuss incontinence episodes with a physician. But most men find that on a day to day basis, using the right male incontinence products in conjunction with medical treatment helps them live normal, active lives with security and confidence.
Disposable incontinence pads are one of the most important male incontinence products, and are a good starting point for most men who experience light to mild incontinence. Male incontinence pads, which may be flat or shaped to conform to the male anatomy, are worn inside regular underwear and held in place with adhesive strips. A variation on pads is the dribble guard or drip collector, which is a disposable absorbent sheath that fits over the penis.
Men who experience more frequent or severe incontinence may find they’re better served by a more robust type of male incontinence products, such as heavier pads generally known as incontinence guards. These male incontinence products are generally larger and thicker than pads, cover more of the anatomy, and have a waterproof backing. They may be worn inside regular underwear, or inside special underwear designed with a pocket to hold the guard in place.
Incontinence underwear, either disposable or reusable, is also a good option for men with mild to moderate incontinence. These are specially constructed briefs that include absorbent padding that traps liquid and a waterproof outer layer to prevent leakage. Incontinence briefs are made in a variety of styles, including step-in and side or front opening designs, and are among the most widely used male incontinence products.
Urinary sheaths, also known as external catheters or condom catheters, are a less commonly used type of male incontinence products but can be a good choice for men who experience more severe incontinence. These male incontinence products are generally sold as part of a system, which includes the sheath itself along with a length of tubing that connects to a drainage bag. The sheath, which rolls on like a condom, directs any release of urine through the tubing and into the drainage bag, which is generally worn attached to the leg.
Penile pouches are a variation on urinary sheaths made for men who experience penile retraction, a common condition among the elderly. Penile pouches are affixed to the glans only rather than covering the full length of the penis. These particular male incontinence products aren’t right for everyone, but they can be invaluable for the aged.
External compression devices, also known as incontinence clamps or penile clamps, are padded, hinged plastic or metal devices that fit over the penis just below the glans and can be adjusted to exert a small amount of pressure, effectively closing off the urethra and preventing the release of urine.