Absorbent incontinence products are designed to absorb and hold urine. Feminine hygiene pads are designed to absorb blood, not urine. The advantage of using incontinence products is that the surface area is closest to the urethral opening, which is above the vaginal opening. The pads are super absorbent and they cause less skin irritation and fewer rashes. Reusable pads are made of cloth with a rayon or polyester core and helps urine absorb. If your bag (s) have not been collected it is likely that you are not registered for the scheme and you will need to join the scheme

Constipation (irregular bowel motions) can put pressure on your bladder or bowel and worsen incontinence. Eat plenty of fibre-rich foods (such as fruit and vegetables) and drink plenty of liquid. Keep active and exercise regularly. Dress for ease

Intermittent catheterization is also called "in and out" catheterization. It is also called "clean intermittent catheterization" (CIC). Because it is clean you don't need gloves and sterile preparation.

To qualify for free incontinence products provided by the NHS, you’ll need to meet criteria set out by the NHS in the area where you live. Men who have prostate problems are also at increased risk. Some medications are linked to urinary incontinence and some medicines make it worse. Statistics show that poor overall health also increases risk. Diabetes, stroke, high blood pressure and smoking are also linked. Onlyincontinence pads and wet wipes should be placed in your purple bags- if any other waste is present in your purple bags it will not be collected. There are also raised seats (toilet raisers) that can help you get up and down from a regular toilet on your own. Foley and suprapubic catheters should be taped or strapped to the upper thigh or lower belly. This lowers the chance of injury if the catheter is tugged accidentally.

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For men, there are external collecting systems called condom or Texas catheters. These special condoms are rolled over the penis. They are kept in place by adhesive or straps. The condoms have holes at the tip. A tube goes from the hole to a drainage bag. Urine from incontinence collects in the drainage bag. Newer condoms are usually silicone. They come in sizes, with a sizing guide.

OAB is more likely in men with prostate problems and in women after menopause. It is caused by many things. Even diet can affect OAB. There are a number of treatments. They include life style changes, drugs that relax the bladder muscle, or surgery. Some people have both SUI and OAB. See a GP if you have any type of urinary incontinence. Urinary incontinence is a common problem and you should not feel embarrassed talking to them about your symptoms.Depending on your particular bladder problem, a GP can advise you about the amount of fluids you should drink. When choosing a product, consider ease of use. Consider whether you need to remove outer clothing to change the device. Also consider absorbency, the liner, and the materials. For example, outside coverings made of plastic may irritate skin. Cost is also a concern for many people. Toilet Substitutes A catheter is inserted in the urethra 3 to 5 times a day. After you empty your bladder, you remove the catheter and throw it away. You or a caretaker can insert the catheter. You don't have to wear it all the time. This lowers the chance of infection. And these devices don't have a balloon like the indwelling catheter.