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Practical Tips for Living with Incontinence
Despite our efforts to break the taboo around male urinary problems, many men are still reluctant to talk about it. So, we were delighted when a forum member reached out to us and offered to share his story. By actively sharing his experiences, he hopes to help others who may be facing similar challenges, offering practical advice and reassurance that life can continue with confidence and dignity despite the difficulties of incontinence.
How Do you Manage Incontinence Daily?
I typically wear about three Men’s pull-ups during the day. However, when I’m just at home, I sometimes switch to a men’s guard in boxers to give my skin a break. At night, I wear an Adult Overnight Diapers. I will also wear a full diaper if I will be on a long car trip, airplane, anywhere I cannot quickly access a restroom. I use a few different barrier creams twices or so a day. Wipes to keep clean etc.
I have considered trying a carer brand boxer type underwear I could put a pad in to change out easily. Kind of like extra protection but I was unsure what to purchase.Then I got a sample of CARER’s boxer briefs and decided to give them a shot. (We can't wait to hear how they worked for you. Once we get your feedback, we’ll update this article to include your experience, so stay tuned!)
What Has Your Treatment Journey Been Like
I have seen a Urologist for about 2.5 years after the leaking kept getting worse. I have tried Toviaz, Oxybutynin, and now on myrbetriq. Myrbetrq helps some, not quite as much as the others for OAB but, the side effects are less. I stopped the others cause I was tired of dealing with side effects. I get a bladder scan about every 6 months at appts. I retain a bit but not a ton. I have a Urodynamics study scheduled this week. After which I am told I can pick from Interstim implant, bladder botox or a weekly tibial nerve stimulation. I am unsure of what I will try. I am leaning toward trying the botox but the procedure does not sound fun. I'm willing to try it once and go from there. Tibial nerve stim, I would try this but it's a weekly thing for months and the hospital is a 3 hour round trip for me. I will probably try interstim after botox. It's a procedure you have to go under for so not an easy thing to just do but I'm willing to give it a go
(Please note that this is a personal treatment situation and may not be suitable for everyone. Always consult with your doctor to determine the best treatment plan for your individual needs.)
How Does Incontinence Impact Your Daily Life?
Accepting the need for protection was a significant mental hurdle. I gave into wearing a pad about 4 years ago and waited a while before seeing a Dr. I decided protection is better than wet pants but it takes a while mentally to get used to it. Adapting - I guess I'm used to it now but I always have a change with me, always take a small bag or something to carry things in and out of a public restroom. There have been a few events I have not attended cause I was overwhelmed thinking about having an accident. I don't go places where I can have my own room / privacy like share a motel overnight. Swimming is a challenge. I usually put a pad in mens trunks and lose it somewhere nearby in a bathroom. Sit on a towel until I can get somewhere to change immediately after the pool. Its anxiety inducing.
What Advice Would You Give to Others?
There are many others with incontinence, look at the shelves in the stores half empty of products. So, you're not alone. Try many products. Unfortunately they are expensive so it's a lot of trial and error. Even samples are expensive. I always try a new product in my home for a while before trusting it when away. After you find the right product and trust it, life can go on. Plan ahead. Planning with some trial and error makes it easier. Keep a change of shorts or whatever all in your car just in case. Keep a change of pad in a discreet bag with you or close so you don't have to run home every time. Wear pants slightly larger to hide bulk. Dark colors hide leaks better if they happen.
The hardest thing to get over is others finding out. People will not notice and eventually you get over the plastic sounds etc. in the restroom when you change. I used to be super paranoid about it but now I don't care. Not like a stranger going to confront you about hearing you change your pad.
In the end, it’s about finding what works best for you, and with some planning and trial and error, you can manage incontinence and continue living your life.
Summary
We want to extend our heartfelt thanks to the community member who bravely shared his story. His experiences offer valuable insights into managing incontinence:Seek Medical Help Early: One of the most important steps is seeking medical advice as soon as you notice symptoms. Early intervention can help manage the condition more effectively and provide you with the best treatment options.Find the Right Products: Don’t be discouraged by trial and error when it comes to finding the right incontinence products. It’s essential to experiment with different options until you discover what works best for your lifestyle and comfort.Engage with the Community: Connecting with others who face similar challenges can be incredibly supportive. Whether through online forums or local groups, sharing experiences and advice can help you feel less isolated.Build Psychological Resilience: Accepting and adapting to incontinence is a mental journey as much as a physical one. Developing a positive mindset and building resilience are key to maintaining confidence and dignity.
In summary, while incontinence can present challenges, it’s manageable with the right approach and support. CARER is committed to creating the best products and sharing valuable resources to help you live comfortably. We’re also offering free samples—if you're interested, you can click FREE SAMPLE to get them. If you're like our story sharer and aren’t sure what to choose, you can email our customer support team or comment below the article. We also look forward to hearing your feedback on CARER products and hope that our solutions can make a positive difference in your life.
Additionally, we welcome guest posts! If you’d like to share your story or offer your own Incontinence Insights, please reach out to us at market@carerspk.com Your experiences could help others facing similar challenges.
A Comprehensive Guide to Menstrual Products: Pads, Tampons, Menstrual Cups, and Period Underwear
When it comes to handling your period, there are several products available, each with unique features like absorption level, comfort, leakage protection, and ease of use. From pads and tampons to menstrual cups and period underwear, this guide will help you understand the differences between each option so you can make an informed decision that best fits your lifestyle and needs. Let’s take a closer look at these choices to help you find the right one for you.
Pads
Pads are perhaps the most widely used menstrual product globally. They are adhesive strips that stick to the inside of underwear to absorb menstrual flow. Pads come in various sizes and absorbency levels, from light to heavy, making them highly versatile. They are particularly favored by those who prefer not to insert anything into their vagina, such as young girls who are new to menstruating and women with sensitivities or certain medical conditions.
Pros:
Easy to use and change.
Non-invasive; no need to insert anything internally.
Visible monitoring of menstrual flow.
Cons:
Can feel bulky or uncomfortable, especially the ones designed for heavier flow.
Risk of leakage if the pad shifts or is not absorbent enough for your flow.
Tampons
Tampons are designed to be inserted into the vagina, where they absorb menstrual blood directly. They come in various sizes and absorbencies and are preferred by those who are active and prefer a more 'invisible' feel. They're particularly popular among people with active lifestyles, providing dependable protection without limiting movement, making them ideal for swimmers and sports enthusiasts alike.
Pros:
Discreet and comfortable when positioned correctly.
Suitable for use during sports and swimming.
Cons:
Can cause discomfort if not inserted correctly.
Risk of toxic shock syndrome (TSS), although very rare, if left in for too long.
Menstrual Cups
Menstrual cups are reusable, flexible cups that catch rather than absorb menstrual flow. They are made from silicone, latex, or rubber and can hold more fluid than tampons, making them a good choice for those with a heavier flow. They are cost-effective and environmentally friendly due to their reusability. Their use also supports the maintenance of vaginal pH and beneficial bacteria due to their non-absorbent nature.
Pros:
Eco-friendly and cost-effective over time.
Long wear time of up to 12 hours.
High capacity, suitable for heavy flows.
Cons:
Insertion and removal require practice.
Needs to be cleaned and sterilized between uses.
Period Underwear
Period underwear is designed to manage your menstrual flow independently, combining the comfort and familiarity of regular underwear with integrated absorbent materials. This innovative product is tailored for various menstrual needs, offering styles and absorbency levels suitable for light to heavy flows.A high quality period underwear provides discreet, reliable protection, allowing you to go about your day with confidence and ease.
Pros:
Highly comfortable and easy to use.
Reusable, making them cost-effective and environmentally friendly.
Acts as a standalone product or backup protection.
Cons:
Initial investment is higher than disposable products.
Requires proper washing and care.
Choosing the Right Product
Absorption and Comfort
When it comes to absorption, menstrual cups lead due to their capacity, which is beneficial for long hours and heavy flows. For comfort, period underwear and pads generally score high, as they don’t require insertion and feel more natural against the skin.
Leakage Resistance
Menstrual cups and tampons offer significant leakage protection but require correct insertion. Period underwear provides excellent backup security and is gaining popularity as a standalone product for those particularly concerned about leaks.
Convenience
Tampons and menstrual cups are ideal for active individuals and those who don’t want to feel hindered by their menstrual product. However, period underwear wins on the convenience of not having to change products during the day or carry additional items like spare tampons or pads.
Cost and Environmental Impact
Reusable products like menstrual cups and period underwear have a higher upfront cost but are more cost-effective over time. They are also environmentally friendly, reducing the waste associated with disposable products like pads and tampons.
Practical Tips and Considerations
Lifestyle Alignment
Your daily activities and lifestyle play a significant role in choosing the right menstrual product. For those with a highly active lifestyle or athletes, tampons and menstrual cups offer the freedom to move without restriction. Meanwhile, for individuals who prioritize comfort and simplicity, especially on lighter days or overnight, pads and period underwear present less intrusive options.
Health Considerations
For those concerned about the risk of Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS) associated with tampons, exploring alternative products can offer peace of mind. Menstrual cups, while also requiring insertion, have a lower association with TSS. Additionally, for individuals sensitive to the chemicals and fragrances in some disposable products, period underwear and menstrual cups provide a hypoallergenic and chemical-free choice, minimizing the risk of irritation and discomfort.
Travel and Accessibility
For travelers or those with limited access to private restrooms during the day, convenience is a must. Menstrual cups offer long-lasting protection, ideal for long flights or outings, but they require cleaning between uses, which might not always be practical. Period underwear, offering both absorbency and leak protection without the need for frequent changes, becomes an excellent travel companion, ensuring comfort and confidence on the go.
Making the Switch
If you're considering switching to a new menstrual product, it’s advisable to start slow. Try using the new product on lighter days or at home to gauge comfort and effectiveness. Remember, it's entirely normal to use a combination of products to suit different needs and occasions. Many find a hybrid approach—using tampons or menstrual cups for certain activities and period underwear for overnight protection—offers the best of both worlds.
Personalize Your Period Care
In conclusion, choosing the right menstrual product—be it pads, tampons, menstrual cups, or period underwear—depends on your personal needs for absorption, comfort, and convenience. We encourage you to explore these options to find what works best for you. As your lifestyle and preferences change, don't hesitate to reassess your choices. Stay informed and comfortable by selecting the menstrual product that aligns best with your life and values!