Experiencing Incontinence? Here's How Incontinence Pads Can Help 

‍This article is contributed by Vivactive, the expert in incontinence care and the UK’s leading online retailer of incontinence products. Our mission is simple: to help people live with confidence, without the cost. We do this by offering the biggest brands alongside our own Vivactive range, for a fraction of supermarket or pharmacy prices.

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Please be aware that the links on this page are affiliate links. This means that we may be compensated when a card holder makes a purchase after clicking the link. Read more about what this means.

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An estimated 14+ million people in the UK experience bladder leaks at some stage in their life. Despite this, there is still a lot of stigma around incontinence, and most people struggle to have conversations about leaks. This often leads to feelings of uncertainty and heightened levels of anxiety when people first begin to experience it.

In this article, we’re introducing one of the most popular management products: incontinence pads, and explaining how they can make day-to-day life easier for those experiencing leaks.

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Incontinence Pads: A Leading Product for Incontinence

When you’re living with bladder leaks, the right product can give you the freedom to go about your day with  comfort and confidence. One of the most popular ways to do this is with incontinence pads, which have been a trusted companion for many people all across the world. Why? They’re discreet, easy to use, and designed to lock away leaks.

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These pads feature unique technology in the form of a "hydrophobic" layer designed to draw urine away from your skin and into the core of the product, so your skin stays dry.

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What Do Incontinence Pads Do?

In their simplest form, incontinence pads are absorbent products that are made to manage urinary or faecal leaks. But in reality, they’re far more than just absorbent sheets. Years and years of research have gone into examining how liquid moves, how to protect delicate skin, and how to keep you feeling fresh all throughout the day.

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Key features include:

●      High absorbency: Layers of soft material coupled with super-absorbent polymers (SAP) that draw in and lock away moisture.

●      Leak protection: They feature a waterproof backing that protects against leaks, so liquid doesn’t get through to your clothes or bedding.

●      Variety: You can get incontinence pads in a range of shapes, sizes, and absorbency levels.

●     Skin and odour care: Lots of pads feature technology to defend against odours, like odour-neutralising polymers which trap molecules so they can’t escape into the air. They’re also designed to keep urine away from the skin to prevent irritation.

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They’re different to adult nappies as they’re slimmer, more discreet and are made to be worn inside your regular underwear, whereas nappies are used instead of underwear, and typically if you’re suffering from more severe incontinence and need greater protection.

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Types of Incontinence Pads

Number one on the priority list is choosing the right type of incontinence pad for your severity and fit.

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●      Shaped pads: These pads are anatomically shaped so that they follow the body’s natural curves, helping them fit you securely and comfortably. They are available in different sizes and levels of absorbency, from small pads for light leaks to large pads for heavier leaks. Shaped pads can be worn inside your underwear for discreet protection, or with fixation pants to hold them in place.

●      Insert pads: Rectangular and more suited to light incontinence. They sit inside your underwear to provide a layer of protection. Ideal for those who experience occasional drips or light leakage.

●     Belted incontinence pads: These tend to have high absorbency levels, and have an adjustable belt for secure fitting. The pad is attached to this elasticated belt that goes around the waist to help keep the pad in place, allowing for easier movement. Perfect for if you’re active or don’t want to wear full incontinence pants or adult nappies.

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How Much Liquid Do Incontinence Pads Hold?

Incontinence pads are available in many different capacities, so it's about finding the right balance for you. The right level of absorption means you won’t have to change as frequently, experience more comfort, and have better leak protection. Typical absorbency ranges include:

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●      Light: up to around 450ml - ideal for small drips and occasional leaks

●     Moderate: 500ml - 1,600ml - suitable for regular leakage during the day

●     Heavy: 1,700ml+ - designed for heavy incontinence or overnight protection

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How Much Are Incontinence Pads?

As we’ve discussed, there are a few different types of incontinence pads, all with varying features.

It’s these features that factor into the cost of each pad, alongside other reasons like the brand you choose. In general, you can get pads anywhere from 8p per pad to 75p per pad, and maybe even more.

Here’s an overview of what can affect the cost of incontinence pads:

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●      Buying in packs/multipacks: This can lower the cost per pad.

●      Brand choice: Different brands will vary in price, often only charging more for their name, not the quality of the product itself.

●     Type of pad: Lighter pads tend to be cheaper, with heavier absorbency pads usually costing more.

●     Subscription services: Some online retailers, like Vivactive, offer a subscription service with regular deliveries for your products, all at a reduced price.

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Where Should I Buy My Incontinence Pads?

💡 Top tip: it’s worth being aware that supermarkets and pharmacies often charge a premium for these essential products. By checking online incontinence supermarkets such as Vivactive, you can find the same great products for up to 50% cheaper than what you would find in stores.

This is because by cutting out the middleman, online retailers can truly offer the same products you would buy in store for a fraction of the price. What’s more, by looking at their own brands, you can find products that rival leading brands for an even further cost saving.

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How to Use Incontinence Pads

To get the most from your pads, it’s vital that they’re fitted correctly. This makes sure that you’re getting maximum protection throughout the day.

Preparation:

●      Fold the pad lengthways before putting it on, creating a natural shape and supporting the leak guards.

●      Choose suitable underwear, like close-fitting underwear for adhesive pads, or fixation pants for larger shaped pads.

●      Shaped pads: Remove any adhesive backing and position the pad with the wider end towards the back. Place it so it fits snugly against your body, making sure it’s centred in your underwear or fixation pants.

●      Insert pads: Put the pad inside your underwear, making sure it’s flat and positioned correctly. Check that it’s not folded or bunched up because this can cause discomfort and impact the performance of the pad.

●     Belted incontinence pads: Wrap the belt around your waist and fasten it securely. Pass the pad between your legs and adjust it as needed for a close fit, making sure the leak guards are up and activated.

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How to Save on Incontinence Pads

As a National Disability Card holder, you can enjoy an exclusive 5% discount on all Vivactive incontinence products. It’s our way of helping you access the trusted protection you need at an even more affordable price. Log into our website to get your exclusive code, and take one more step towards living with confidence, without the cost.

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Please be aware that the links on this page are affiliate links. This means that we may be compensated when a card holder makes a purchase after clicking the link. Read more about what this means.