If you are a woman wondering whether you should choose incontinence pads over menstrual pads for bladder leaks or your period, we are here to help clear it up. All pads are not equal, and there are quite a few differences between a pad made for bladder leaks and one made to protect a female with her period.
What are incontinence pads?
An incontinence pad is designed to be inserted inside a primary undergarment and are made with super-absorbent polymers to protect against bladder leaks. They quickly absorb small to large amounts of fluid and retain it with waterproof backing. These pads are constructed with wicking fabric to draw moisture away from the skin and neutralize odors which can help prevent skin irritation. Depending on a person’s needs, incontinence pads are available in various sizes, absorbencies, and shapes for both genders.
What are menstrual pads?
The consistency of menstrual blood is very different from urine. Although inserted in a primary undergarment like an incontinence pad, menstrual pads are not designed with the same technology as incontinence pads to absorb and lock in liquid. And since they do not lock in moisture properly, the skin’s integrity is at risk. Menstrual pads have a lower absorption level and only mask odors, not control them.
A menstrual pad is a hygiene product worn by women when menstruating, recovering from gynecologic surgery, bleeding after giving birth, or for any other reason that requires blood absorption. Depending on the blood flow, they are available in various shapes, sizes, and absorbencies. Menstrual pads are sometimes referred to as sanitary napkins or period pads.
Can I use incontinence pads for menstruation?
Because the technology of an incontinence pad is made to absorb urine or liquid feces specifically, the blood will not absorb as quickly as it would with a menstrual pad. The flow of menstruation is much slower than that of bladder leaks. However, some women have reported that using an incontinence pad for menstruation did the job effectively.
Can menstrual pads be used for bladder leaks?
The short answer is no. Managing incontinence correctly is critical for skin health and overall health, and menstrual pads cannot do so. Menstrual pads’ absorbent materials are not designed to hold and retain urine, so leakage is bound to occur. And since menstrual pads are not made with the wicking materials of incontinence pads, the skin can stay wet, causing irritation and odors.
We hope we have clarified the difference between incontinence and menstrual pads and why you should use each based on their properties for specific needs. Shop our website to find the best incontinence products, including menstrual pads, for the type of leak protection you need. As always, our Incontinence Product Experts are just a phone call away and ready to help should you need assistance choosing the incontinence product for your unique needs.
In our other blog post, All About Incontinence Pads, learn more about all the different styles, options, and features of these incontinence products.
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