Edit Content
Search
[give_form id="19690"]

Ask The Doc: Protective Underwear or Adult Absorbent Briefs – What’s The Difference?

Question: What is the difference between protective underwear (pull-ups) and adult absorbent briefs?

Answer: In the world of absorbent products, it can be hard to find something that works with your needs.  Most adults who wet the bed use some type of protection, usually protective underwear, or an adult absorbent brief.

Protective underwear is designed to mimic real underwear, and, unlike absorbent briefs, do not have any tape or velcro siding. Many who prefer this pull-on option like it because of its convenience – pull-ups are easy to put on or remove, and give users a sense of freedom from the typical brief style.

Absorbent briefs are similar to protective underwear but have side tabs that can be adjusted for comfort and fit.  Although they may not be as convenient, many prefer this option since they are able to adjust the side tabs, therefore creating a more custom, snug fit that can prevent leaks.

Choosing the option that is right for you or your loved one may involve some trial and error, and will depend on your circumstances. Do you wake up often at night to use the restroom? Protective underwear may work best for you due to the ease of pulling them on and off. Do you care for someone who is more bedridden and needs more assistance with getting in and out of bed or changing clothes?  Briefs may be preferred since the tabs make it easier to find a good fit and can be easier for caretakers to change.

Of course, finding a product that will keep you dry is the biggest goal, and relies heavily on fit (it shouldn’t be too big or too small), absorbency (look for products that are specific to night-time use), and function.  Don’t be afraid to try lots of options until you find something that fits well and is comfortable.

Are you an expert in incontinence care? Would you like to join the NAFC expert panel? Contact us!

Comments

3 Responses

  1. Bedwetting or nocturnal enuresis is not an unusual problem in younger children. Most of the time, bedwetting can be outgrown once a child turns 6 years old, but there are a number of children who can’t outgrow their bedwetting problems. One method of treating it is by purchasing a bed wetting alarm, visit http://which-wetting-alarm.com/ to solve this problem.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

Related Articles

NAFC Intimacy Blog

Incontinence & Intimacy: Reconnecting After Bladder Leaks

For many people, sex and intimacy is about far more than physical closeness. It’s about confidence, connection, vulnerability, and feeling comfortable in your own body.
When urinary incontinence enters the picture, those feelings can quietly change.
While often discussed as a physical condition, incontinence can deeply affect emotional well-being and romantic relationships, something many people experience but few talk about openly.

Saving Money Blog

The Financial Impact of Incontinence: Costs You May Not See

Incontinence is often discussed in terms of symptoms and quality of life but for many people, it also brings a steady (and sometimes surprising) financial burden. Beyond the obvious cost of pads, protective underwear, and skin-care products, there can be added expenses from laundry, missed work, caregiving needs, and medical visits. The good news: understanding where the costs come from is the first step toward reducing them—and getting the right treatment can be a cost-saver, not just a health improvement.

Talking To doctor Blog article

Speaking Up About Incontinence

For many people living with bladder leaks, the hardest part isn’t the symptoms themselves.
It’s deciding to talk about them.
Bladder leaks can feel too small to mention, too embarrassing to explain, or not “serious enough” to justify a doctor’s visit. Many people quietly manage symptoms for years—adjusting their routines, limiting activities, and hoping things don’t get worse.
If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. And you’re not wrong for feeling this way.

NAFC Intimacy Blog

Incontinence & Intimacy: Reconnecting After Bladder Leaks

For many people, sex and intimacy is about far more than physical closeness. It’s about confidence, connection, vulnerability, and feeling comfortable in your own body.
When urinary incontinence enters the picture, those feelings can quietly change.
While often discussed as a physical condition, incontinence can deeply affect emotional well-being and romantic relationships, something many people experience but few talk about openly.

Help Shape NAFC's Community!

We’re planning a new NAFC community and would love your input! Take our short survey!

Get A Free EBook: 21 Ways To Manage Bladder Leaks!

Join Our Mailing List and Get a FREE EBook: 21 Ways To Manage Bladder Leaks!