Ways to avoid diaper leakage in adults

The onset of urinary incontinence or the sudden, unavoidable leakage of urine can bring a cloud of anxiety, despair and embarrassment to the patients. Despite taking medicines and using incontinence aids to manage their urine flow, patients are always worried about leakage. 

Urine leakage can be well managed with the use of incontinence products like diapers made for adults. Even with super absorbent diapers, sometimes leakage can occur due to various reasons. This can affect the patient and their caretaker in more than one way. Hence it is best to familiarize oneself with ways to avoid diaper leakage. 

1. Choosing superior quality adults diapers 

One of the most common reasons behind leakage is the purchase of low quality diapers that cannot absorb the patient’s heavy flow. Caretakers or patients must choose hypoallergenic diapers made from superior absorbent materials which are able to contain moderate to heavy incontinence flow, rather than choosing ordinary diapers available at lower costs. 

2. Pick the right kind of diaper – Adult diapers come in different sizes and styles to suit the needs of the wearer. Different style of diapers are meant to be used on different occasions or times of the day. Bedridden patients or those who suffer from a heavy flow should use overnight diapers for adults even during the day. Overnight diapers are designed for long hours of usage and have high absorbency levels, thereby minimizing the chances of leakage. Patients who experience moderate incontinence flow can use pull-on diapers or disposable adult diapers that are easier to wear and change. These diapers can be worn during the day as they fit like a regular underwear. Patients can wear these diapers under their clothes and step out without worries as these can be adjusted to the comfort of the wearer.   

3. Make sure that the diaper fits well – Diapers need to fit snugly around the legs of the wearer. If the tape or elastic of the diaper is loose and does not fit well, it can leave gaps near the nether regions, legs or waist. This gives room for leaks. Likewise, if the diaper fits too tight, it cannot provide enough coverage or have adequate space to absorb the flow of urine. This results in leaks and stains on the wearer’s clothing. Properly fitting disposable adult diapers are those which do not restrict any movements and embrace the contours of the patient’s body. A secure fit contains the outflows without any mess. Caretakers must choose the correct diaper size from the varying size ranges available. A compactly fitted diaper can trap and absorb the patient’s discharge for long hours.

4. Change diapers periodically – Although overnight diapers for adults have enhanced absorbency for long hours, not changing them from time to time can result in leakage. Wearing a diaper for too long can also bring about painful skin rashes, bad odor and leaks due to soiling. 

That's the reason it's recommended to purchase disposable underpads along with adult diapers to keep the users' clothes and bedcovers dry and secure. Friends underpads are highly absorbent and hygienic unlike commonly used non-absorbent rubber sheets that just leave the user in a pool of urine.

There are multiple brands of diapers and other incontinence products in the market today. While some users prefer the natural fit of a specially designed diaper, others may not be comfortable with it. Caretakers must choose a size and style that is most comfortable for the wearer. However, if leaks persist, it is best to switch brands and buy a more long-lasting, absorbent overnight diaper for adults. With a bit of research and careful selection, it is easy to find a well-fitting incontinence product that keeps away soiling and leakage.