When you are a parent of a child with a disability, incontinence issues can be disruptive to their routine—but selecting the right products such as incontinence underwear for children to help them can be challenging. Adult products for incontinence are readily available, but these do not match the needs of a child or even a teenager.
Shop online here and explore everything you need to know when incontinence products for children and teenagers.
What is the difference between adult and child products?
It is relatively simple to find products for small children who are potty training. The same is true for adults with incontinence problems. But when it comes to older children or teens, more specific needs must be addressed.
Although a young person may have comparable needs as an adult regarding incontinence, their bodies are sized differently. Therefore, purchasing incontinence underwear for children is much more difficult. The reason is they have a shorter rise: the distance between their crotch and waist is typically shorter.
Because of this, adult-sized incontinence products tend to be roomy in the waist and leg. An adult can be one to two inches longer in the rise. Because of this, the waistband of the product could be around the rib cage of a younger person.
Things to know
When purchasing incontinence products for children or teenagers, there are specific things you need to consider:
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Type
Each child will have specific requirements, meaning you will need to consider their needs when purchasing incontinence products. No child is the same.
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Fit
You must buy according to waist size and not weight to fit the child’s body perfectly, to mitigate leakages and keep them comfortable.
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Capacity
This is probably one of the most critical elements. You need to factor in roughly how much fluid your child will eliminate. Therefore, you must choose the right product. Absorption levels can be light, moderate, heavy, and overnight.
The following is a simple way to determine the urine output of your child.
In millimetres: First off, factor in your child’s age, add two and then multiply it by 30. The number would be an estimate of the urine your child will produce.
In ounces: Once again, add two to your child’s age. The resulting number is an estimate of the ounces of urine your child will pass.
What are the types of special needs incontinence products?
Similar to incontinence products for adults, there are products designed for older children and teenagers.
If you are unsure of the type of product to purchase, you need to factor in your child’s urine output alongside your child’s waist size. But you must also consider the physical activity of your child during daytime and needs protection. Will they need more coverage overnight? In any case, the following are options available for you:
- Pull-ups are designed the same as regular underwear.
- Incontinence underwear in straightforward style incorporate tabs that lie flat with open sides for effortless changing.
- Reusable products are washable and dryer friendly.
- Disposable products can be thrown away after one use.
Complementary products are bed pads designed to cover mattresses and add an extra layer of protection during the night.
If you have a child or teen with a disability and has incontinence problems, it is critical to find the right product to ensure they are protected and comfortable day and night.
