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Your email address will not be published.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

UTIS Menopause Podcast

UTIs, Incontinence and Menopause – More of a Connection than You Might Realize

Do you have pain or burning when you pee? If so, you might have a urinary tract infection. They’re remarkably common. About 50% of women will develop one in their lifetime, and they get even more common as women get older and go through menopause. If you’re one of the 50% unlucky enough to come down with a UTI, this podcast is for you…

For more information about the National Association for Continence, click here, and be sure to follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and Pinterest.

Carer Blog Banner

Comfort Meets Confidence: Washable Incontinence Underwear Designed for Men

When it comes to bladder leaks, most men are familiar with disposable pads or guards. They’re the go-to solution—widely available, easy to use, and instantly replaceable. But what if there were a better option?

What many don’t realize is that washable incontinence underwear has come a long way. Thanks to innovations in fabric technology and thoughtful design, today’s washable options offer dependable protection in a form that looks and feels like regular underwear—without the drawbacks of disposables.

Podcast Webpage Image - Gill Bladder Cancer

Bladder Cancer in the News – What You Need to Know

With the recent announcement by Deion Sanders, hall of fame NFL player and current head coach for the University of Colorado Buffaloes, that he is undergoing treatment for bladder cancer, we’ve been seeing a significant increase in interest about the disease. Today’s guest is Dr. Bradley Gill, chief of surgery at Cleveland Clinic Hillcrest and Mentor Hospitals and a board-certified urologist, to help us understand the condition, its causes, treatment options and potential outcomes.

UTIS Menopause Podcast

UTIs, Incontinence and Menopause – More of a Connection than You Might Realize

Do you have pain or burning when you pee? If so, you might have a urinary tract infection. They’re remarkably common. About 50% of women will develop one in their lifetime, and they get even more common as women get older and go through menopause. If you’re one of the 50% unlucky enough to come down with a UTI, this podcast is for you…

For more information about the National Association for Continence, click here, and be sure to follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and Pinterest.