Pros and Cons of Disposable and Reusable Incontinence Products

Urinary incontinence is the involuntary leaking of urine, which various factors can cause. It can be due to the stress in your pelvic area, like what happens when you cough or laugh. It may also be difficult to control the leak due to weak pelvic muscles, or your bladder has trouble emptying, thus feeling the urge to go frequently. Regardless of the cause, one thing is for sure: it can be inconvenient and affect your self-confidence.

You don’t have to suffer from urinary continence forever because there are available treatments that can help manage its symptoms, depending on the type and severity of the situation. For instance, pelvic floor exercises can help strengthen the pelvic muscles, which help in treating incontinence caused by infection or pressure on the pelvis. On the other hand, severe conditions may require surgery or a medical process. While under treatment, you may need to use incontinence pads or pants to prevent leaks. They are designed to be discreet, so you don’t have to worry as people won’t be able to tell that you are wearing them. You have the option to use disposable or reusable products, which have their pros and cons.

Pros of using disposable incontinence products

• More convenient to use. There’s no need to wash once full as you can simply dispose of it and use a new one.
• Ideal for travel. You don’t want the hassle of washing a reusable pad or pants while on the road, so a disposable product will save you from that.
• Better leak protection. Disposable products are more absorbent and protect you from leaks better, making you feel more confident.
• Several pads or pants in a pack. Buying one pack already comes with several disposable pads or pants, so you have plenty of extras ready when you need them.
• Odour control. Many disposable incontinence products now come with better odour control, so you don’t have to be concerned about the smell.

Cons of using disposable incontinence products

• More expensive. It costs more since you must keep buying new ones when your supply runs out.
• Less comfortable. It takes more time to get used to them as they are not as comfortable as the reusable ones that feel like regular underwear.

Pros of using reusable incontinence products

• Cost-effective. You don’t have to keep buying new ones as they are washable.
• More comfortable. They are like regular underwear with pads, so they are more comfortable to wear. You’ll get used to wearing them in no time.
• Environment-friendly. Since they are reusable, there are fewer materials used, and it limits the trash that ends up in the landfill.

Cons of using reusable incontinence products

• Inconvenient. You must wash it after its use, which can be inconvenient, especially if travelling.
• Minimal leak protection. The pads are not as thick as the disposable ones, so they can’t carry heavy leaks.

Now that you know the pros and cons of disposable and reusable incontinent products, it will be easier to decide which option will work for you. Or you can use a mix of both, depending on the situation.