Wearing adult briefs can be uncomfortable and challenging at the same time, and while the final choice is up to you, there is some important information that you should know. Depends introduced one of the first brands of unisex underwear designed to help adults suffering from incontinence in the early 1980s. Along with those suffering from urinary and fecal incontinence, people with dementia or mobility impairment may also use adult diapers.

Adult diapers can come in different styles, but most follow the same basic design. While older models were similar to children’s diapers, newer models have become much more comfortable and fashionable. Newer designs by companies like Depends, Stayfree and Poise mimic the design of traditional underwear. These designs are usually available in different sizes as well as different levels of absorbency. In addition to the variety of sizes, Depends also offers different designs for men and women. These designs are contoured to fit different body types and have their absorbency in different areas, the front for men and the middle/rear for women.

Adult Briefs versus Pads

In addition to underwear, patients suffering from bladder control issues can also opt for guards or incontinence pads. Guards are placed inside of a normal pair of underwear and act as a small absorbent barrier. These pads are often used by men who suffer from a “drip,” like those recovering from prostate surgery. Incontinence pads, a name sometimes used to refer to all adult diaper varieties, are similar to guards except that they are much more absorbent. Some incontinence pads can be washed, while others are disposable.

Incontinence pads have long been tough to talk about, however, they are becoming more and more common among adults who have bladder issues, and even among some that don’t. Astronauts often wear adult diapers during takeoff and reentry to prevent bathroom breaks.

Other professionals that have been known to wear diapers are security guards who are unable to leave their posts, legislators in long sessions and divers who are underwater for prolonged periods of time. In some countries where public bathrooms are either unavailable or unsanitary, adults will often don diapers so as not to spend excess amounts of time searching for convenient place to relieve themselves.

Adult Briefs Can Relieve Suffering

Choosing the right adult briefs is only as hard as knowing your symptoms. For instance, someone who suffers from only a small amount of urinary incontinence will need a different diaper than someone who suffers from fecal incontinence. For people suffering from fecal incontinence, higher brand diapers are recommended, like Secure X-Plus and Abena AbriForm X-plus.

The diaper you choose also depends on your day to day situation. If you are someone who is going to be moving around during the day and might not be able to change your diaper, it may be necessary to select a more absorbent pair. Shopping for adult diapers can sometimes feel embarrassing, which is why many patients have chosen to do their shopping online. Regardless of your adult diaper needs, it’s important to make sure that you select the right pair.