Incontinence Skin Care

Incontinence (bladder or bowel), is a challenging condition, and it can have negative, long- term consequences if not handled appropriately. The skin is very sensitive to the effects of incontinence, and that is why incontinence skin care is vital for the person with this condition. Without adequate care, the skin could break down causing rashes, or pressure ulcers, which could become infected.

Incontinence products offer several options to help keep skin dry and clean after incontinence has occurred. Choosing the best option depends on the degree of incontinence that is being experienced. There are products available for those who only need minimal protection, for example, with stress incontinence. Stress incontinence occurs during coughing, laughing, or when lifting somewhat heavy objects. Pant liners, shields, and pads are appropriate for this level of incontinence.

If more protection is needed, adult underwear is another option. Adult underwear for incontinence is similar to regular underwear (male and female style). It gives protection from constant bladder leakage that occurs with urge incontinence and overflow incontinence. Urge incontinence is the sudden urge to urinate and unable to get to the bathroom before the urine begins to flow. Overflow incontinence is frequent leakage of small amounts of urine. The amount of protection provided by this type of underwear is available in medium and maximum absorbencies.

For those with severe bladder incontinence or bowel incontinence, adult briefs are available. Adult briefs are diapers with tabs that open and close for fit, versus having to step into a waistband and leg openings.

Keeping the skin dry and clean also requires that once the pad, pant liner, underwear, or briefs become soiled, they are removed as soon as possible and the skin cleansed. Then, apply a clean pad, pant liner, underwear, or brief. Personal cleansing washcloths and wash creams (no-rinse cleanser) are products that are also available for incontinence skin care.

Keeping the skin dry and keeping it clean is essential for the well- being of the person that is incontinent, and there is a variety of products available to help.