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How do I Choose the Best Incontinence Diaper?

Tara Barnett
Tara Barnett

Choosing the best incontinence diaper is often a matter of absorbability and price, but other factors such as how the diaper looks under clothing as well as how comfortable it is may also be considered. As choosing the best incontinence diaper is highly dependent on how well the diaper fits one's body and lifestyle, it may be advisable to try out several different brands before deciding on a single favorite. Also, one may find that one kind of diaper is better for day use, while another is better for sleeping. In essence, choosing an incontinence diaper is a largely personal choice, but there are several things to think about when making that choice.

One of the most important features when choosing an incontinence diaper type is how much urine the diaper can absorb before leaking. For minor incontinence, the diaper usually does not need to absorb much liquid before a bathroom can be reached, but for serious loss of bladder control, a thicker diaper may be desired. It is possible for diapers that are not well made to leak, so making sure that the size and design of the diaper are an appropriate fit is important as well. One might even consider trying the diaper out at home before taking it out in public.

Urinary incontinence is characterized by a person's inability to control his or her bladder.
Urinary incontinence is characterized by a person's inability to control his or her bladder.

Another thing to consider when choosing an incontinence diaper is price. If these diapers will be replaced frequently, it may become very expensive to purchase more expensive diapers. On the other hand, if one will be wearing diapers constantly, it may be worth it to purchase those more expensive diapers because the discomfort of cheaper diapers will seriously decrease one’s quality of life. One might also consider how easy it is to purchase the chosen,because if they are not stocked by a nearby store, it may become inconvenient to buy them.

The elderly may benefit from incontinence diapers.
The elderly may benefit from incontinence diapers.

While diapers worn at night need not be attractive under clothing, a person who must go to work or even just out in public wearing diapers may feel more comfortable if the diapers are less noticeable. In certain situations, such as in nursing homes, it is often considered more socially appropriate to wear visibly bulging diapers. For younger people, this can be a serious embarrassment. Many diapers are made to minimize bulk for wearability, but they may then lose absorbability. If one is attentive to the state of one's diaper, this is usually not a problem if the diaper can be quickly changed.

Barrier creams can be used in conjunction with diapers to prevent skin rashes in individuals suffering from incontinence.
Barrier creams can be used in conjunction with diapers to prevent skin rashes in individuals suffering from incontinence.

One might consider a cloth diaper for incontinence, as these items are reusable. They must be cleaned and handled, however, which many people find unpleasant. On the other hand, a cloth diaper can be sewn at home and may be perfectly fitted for one's body. Some diapers are made to look more like underwear and may be appropriate if one is trying to be discreet about incontinence. Choosing an incontinence diaper is a very intimate decision, so doing research online may be a good way to get started choosing the best one.

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    • Urinary incontinence is characterized by a person's inability to control his or her bladder.
      By: Budimir Jevtic
      Urinary incontinence is characterized by a person's inability to control his or her bladder.
    • The elderly may benefit from incontinence diapers.
      By: sepy
      The elderly may benefit from incontinence diapers.
    • Barrier creams can be used in conjunction with diapers to prevent skin rashes in individuals suffering from incontinence.
      By: Picture-Factory
      Barrier creams can be used in conjunction with diapers to prevent skin rashes in individuals suffering from incontinence.