Product Sizing and FitContinence Care Management: What a Health Care Professional Needs to Know

From The National Association For Continence

Sizing and Fit

• Absorbents use should be customized to each person’s unique requirements

• Bigger is not always better

• Fit is essential

• Look for products with re-closable fasteners that will adhere to any part of the garment

• Breathable side panels help with comfort and skin integrity

Products

• Protective pads and pantiliners:– One size fits all– Light, regular, moderate, maximum

absorbencies– Female use

• Guards for men– One size fits all– Extra absorbency but considered for

moderate leakage

• Belted undergarments: elastic belts provide a snug fit

– One size fits all– Extra absorbency but considered for

moderate leakage

Products

• Protective underwear: feels and fits like regular underwear– X-small, small/medium, large, X-large– Extra absorbency

• Adjustable underwear: stretchable tabs adjust to fit and let you change without removing your clothes (day and night use)– Small/medium, large– Maximum absorbency

• Fitted briefs: soft leak guard for maximum protection with adjustable tabs for comfort and fit (day and night use)– Medium, large, X-large– Maximum absorbency

Product Selection Advice:Women

Women with light bladder leakage should consider disposable pads if:• Concerned about containing leakageWomen should not consider pads if:• Discretion is a priority• Leakage is heavier than light leakageWomen with moderate to heavy bladder leakage should consider large disposable pads if:• Discretion is a priority• You can stand up but receive assistance in changing

the pad• Easy to put on productWomen should not consider pads if:• Skin is severely damaged in perineal area• Leakage is very heavy• They are mobile & active

Product Selection Advice:Men

Men with light bladder leakage should consider disposable pads if:• Concerned about containing leakageMen should not consider pads if:• Discretion is a priority• Leakage is heavier than light leakageMen with moderate to heavy bladder leakage should consider disposable protective underwear if:• You are most concerned about containing leakage• Discretion is a priority• You can stand up but receive assistance in changing

the pad• Easy to put on productMen should not consider disposable protective underwear if:• Removal of clothing or changing is difficult• Nighttime usage is necessary

Product Selection Advice

• Additional Tips:

– Large washable pads may be ideal if your leakage is very heavy at night.

– Adjustable underwear with self-adhesive refastenable tape tabs are a good choice if your leakage is heavy and you are unable to stand to change the pad.