Steps to choose the best incontinence products

Posted by Alpha Medical Solutions on Mon 15 Sep 2025

Living with incontinence can feel overwhelming, whether it’s for yourself or while caring for a loved one. The right incontinence products can make a significant difference in comfort, confidence, and quality of life. But with so many options available—pads, pants, nappies, and brands like TENA and MoliCare—choosing the right product can be confusing.

This guide walks you through the essential steps to select the right incontinence aids, helping you make an informed and confident choice.

Step 1: Identify the Type of Incontinence

Understanding the type of incontinence is the first step:

  • Stress incontinence – Leakage with coughing, sneezing, or exercise.

  • Urge incontinence – Sudden, intense need to urinate.

  • Overflow incontinence – Frequent dribbling due to incomplete bladder emptying.

  • Functional incontinence – Difficulty reaching the toilet in time.

Different types may require different solutions. For instance, incontinence pads are often suitable for light leakage, while incontinence pants or all-in-one slips may be better for heavy or overnight use.

Step 2: Assess Absorbency Needs

Incontinence products vary by absorbency level. It’s important to match the product with the severity of leakage:

Absorbency Level

Best For

Light

Small leaks, occasional dribbles

Moderate

More frequent leakage, day use

Heavy

Overnight use, immobility, post-surgery

Tip: It’s often best to have a mix of products—lighter pads for daytime and higher-absorbency pants or nappies for overnight.

Step 3: Consider Comfort and Fit

The right fit ensures better protection and reduces skin irritation. Look for:

  • Sizes: Small to XXL options available.

  • Materials: Breathable, skin-friendly fabrics to prevent rashes.

  • Design: Pull-up pants for active users, adjustable slips for those with limited mobility.

Brands like TENA and MoliCare offer soft, discreet, and dermatologically tested products, ensuring both comfort and dignity.

MoliCare logo
Depend logo

Tena logo

Step 4: Lifestyle and Mobility Factors

Your choice may depend on daily activity:

  • Active lifestyle: Pull-up incontinence pants provide freedom of movement.

  • Bedridden or limited mobility: All-in-one slips with tabs allow easier changes.

  • Travel or outings: Discreet pads and pants that fit under regular clothing help maintain confidence in public.

Abena logo

Step 5: Cost and NDIS Coverage

Cost plays an important role when choosing long-term incontinence aids. As an NDIS Registered Provider, Alpha Medical Solutions can support eligible Australians in accessing funding for incontinence products.

Buying in bulk can also reduce costs while ensuring you always have supplies on hand.

Things to remember

  • Match the product to the type of incontinence.

  • Choose the right absorbency for day or night use.

  • Prioritise comfort, fit, and lifestyle needs.

  • Explore NDIS funding to make products more affordable.

Choosing incontinence products doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By following these steps, you’ll find solutions that provide comfort, dignity, and peace of mind. At Alpha Medical Solutions, we proudly stock trusted brands like TENA and MoliCare, ensuring you always have access to high-quality, reliable products.

Explore our full range of Incontinence Aids today and take the first step toward confidence and comfort.

Alpha Medical Solutions and NDIS Registered Provider logos


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What are the best incontinence products for overnight use?
High-absorbency products like MoliCare slips or TENA pants are recommended for overnight protection.

2. How do I know what absorbency level I need?
Light leakage may only need pads, while heavy or overnight needs require pants or slips with maximum absorbency.

3. Are incontinence products covered by the NDIS?
Yes, eligible participants can access funding for incontinence products through the NDIS.

4. Can I wear incontinence pants under regular clothing?
Yes, modern incontinence pants are discreetly designed to look and feel like regular underwear.