Incontinence is a common condition. With the right support, it can often be managed, treated and, in some cases, cured. Where incontinence cannot be cured, products may be needed to support comfort, dignity and quality of life.
Impact of disposable continence aids
By 2030, Australia is projected to have up to ten times more single-use disposable incontinence products than babies' nappies. This increase is largely driven by an ageing population and contributes significantly to landfill waste. (International Journal of Integrated Waste Management, Science and Technology).
Reusable continence aids
There are reusable incontinence products available in different brands, sizes and absorbency levels to help manage incontinence that you, or the person you are caring for, are experiencing (urinary, bowel or both).
A nurse continence specialist (or other health professionals trained in continence care) is best placed to:
- Establish the cause of the problem
- Assess needs and offer treatment options
- Where applicable, help determine the best products to use.
Please discuss with a relevant health professional (e.g. nurse continence specialist) on which reusable products are available and which options might be suitable for you or the person you care for.
A guide to reusable continence aids, along with information about upcoming subsidy opportunities, will be available on this page soon. Please check back for updates.
Support available
The Australian Federal and State Governments offer a range of subsidy schemes to help offset the cost of continence products. For more information, visit Continence Health Australia or call the National Continence Helpline on 1800 33 00 66.
Reusable continence aids options
Absorbent underwear/pull up pants for urinary incontinence
Washable absorbent underwear, designed to resemble regular underwear, feature an absorbent layer to effectively contain urinary leaks. Available in materials like cotton or bamboo, and with diverse designs, they offer comfort and versatility for individuals, whilst managing incontinence discreetly
Pads and liners for urinary incontinence
Reusable incontinence pads and liners are similar to menstrual pads and are available in various shapes, sizes and levels of absorbency to accommodate different needs. They are typically shaped differently to suit the anatomy of the wearer, to ensure adequate protection in specific areas. Reusable incontinence pads and liners have wings which are fastened around the underwear using snaps/ press studs or clips. Absorbent products for penile incontinence are usually triangular shaped, like shields or guards, and are designed to fit snugly inside the pouch of close-fitting underwear.
Pad and pant system for urinary incontinence
A pad and pant system uses shaped pads worn close to the body and are used with washable mesh/stretch pants. The pads are shaped like an hourglass to fit between the legs and around the body. Some pads have elastic gussets along the sides to ensure a closer fit and prevent leakage.
Containment swim skorts/ shorts for urinary and bowel incontinence
Reusable swimming garments are available in many shapes and sizes and minimise the risk of leaks when swimming and participating in other aquatic activities. Depending on the product, some will provide full containment for individuals experiencing both urinary and bowel incontinence.
Vaginal pessary for urinary incontinence
Inserted into the vagina like a menstrual cup, a vaginal pessary applies pressure to the vaginal walls to lift and support the bladder and the urethra and can help manage the symptoms of stress incontinence. A health care provider can show how to insert and care for them4.
Penile compression device
These devices are used to temporarily stop output from the bladder (for activities such as swimming). The compression devices are applied externally and vary in shape and size, but they are generally made of f lexible and soft materials that adapt to the person’s anatomy. Some products come with adjustable settings to customise the level of compression according to individual needs. A penile clamp is placed on the penis for a short time (duration as advised by a health care provider)5.
Chair pads and bed protectors
Pads for chairs (including wheelchairs and car seats) can be used as a back-up to absorbent underwear and pants and may be of assistance when travelling.
Bed protectors, bed pads and absorbent bed sheets These products protect the mattress from moisture and are washable and reusable. They are suitable for individuals needing extra protection at night or who have trouble getting up overnight. Reusable absorbent bed pads and sheets can be tucked under the sides of the mattress. They draw the urine away from the body and are often used at night to allow a good night’s sleep and prevent regular sheets and mattresses from getting wet6
