Day
:
:
Online since 2002 | 866-316-0162
Reviewed by Christine Kijek, Registered Colorectal Nurse, on August 16, 2022
Battling incontinence can be quite the endeavor and in many cases the need for catheters may seem like the only alternative. What if there was a way that you could avoid potential UTIs and use a catheter alternative? Believe it or not this is possible! Yes, men and women are different and there are catheter alternatives for both male and female incontinence. Allow me to help you!
Incontinence does not discriminate between men and women. Both genders can be affected by this affliction, but since our urethras are uniquely different, the solutions are also different. The male urethra is longer compared to a female’s so any solution for a woman is usually shorter (especially for catheters). The average male’s urethra is 18-20 cm long (roughly 7.5 inches) while a female has a urethra approximately 3-4 cm long (about 1.5 inches) and unlike a male, is not part of the reproductive system. The rate of urinary tract infections is higher in females than males due to the proximity between the urethra opening and the vagina/anus. It is also easier to straight catheterize a male than a female, so alternatives may be just what you need.
While some instances of severe incontinence may require surgical or indwelling catheters, those with light to moderate incontinence might search for an alternative to urinary catheters. Since each individual has a unique case, there may not be a one-size-fits-all solution for everybody. Work with your doctor or nurse to determine which method might be more suitable for you. Not only are people different, but there are different types of incontinence and some are:
Understanding what type of incontinence you suffer from may have a direct effect on the solution for you. Since urinary catheters are different for both men and women, some of the alternatives are also designed specifically for men or women. Even though modern-day catheters are discrete, economical and (more importantly) comfortable, you may opt for some alternatives such as:
Obviously, this is designed for men. After prostate surgery or minor urinary incontinence due to age/injury, this clamp works by being designed for all-day comfort and control. By simply inserting the penis into the clamp and securing it, the clamp maintains blood flow while applying gentle pressure to the urethra to prevent urine leakage. Travelers need not worry since these are not made of metal and can be worn discreetly through metal detectors.
Disposable and easy to use, these disposable pouches are designed to cover part of the penis and constrict the flow of urine through the urethra. These can easily be used at any urinal (especially in public) for privacy and discreet wear. These are designed specifically for men and can help protect clothing from urine droplets.
These are akin to menstrual pads but are worn with everyday underwear in a variety of different absorbency. They also have moisture-wicking properties to keep you dry. Many even offer to correct pH balance features to minimize odor. These pads are available in many sizes and an adhesive strip is placed on the back to keep them in place. Incontinence pads are available for men or women. Their absorption needs are different.
Adult diapers have come a long way! Many are anatomically designed for men or women only and are great for skin care. These can be available in disposable or re-washable options, which may be more economically viable for you. These can even be worn with pads for more peace of mind.
Women can strengthen their pelvic floor muscles by doing Kegel exercises. The pelvic muscles directly influence the muscles around the bladder and if these muscles are weakened, there can be urine leakage during laughter, coughing, and during exercise. Men can even benefit from this technique by stopping the flow of urine midway. Once the flow has slowed or stopped you have found the correct muscles.
For those that suffer from incontinence, the battle may seem never-ending and the possibility of needing catheters every day can be intimidating. There are some alternatives to daily catheterization and all it takes is a little trial and error to see if they are right for you and your lifestyle.
Health Products For You carries a vast collection of products if you are looking for catheter alternatives to lower your risk of infection and get over incontinence-related worries. These products are discreet and can be great catheter alternatives for men and women dealing with urinary incontinence. Choose from the wide selection that best suits your requirements. Shop now and get amazing discounts.
Shop Incontinence Supplies
Disclaimer: All content found on our website, including images, videos, infographics, and text were created solely for informational purposes. Our content should never be used for the purpose of diagnosis or treatment of any medical conditions. Content shared on our websites is not meant to be used as a substitute for advice from a certified medical professional. Reliance on the information provided on our website as a basis for patient treatment is solely at your own risk. We urge all our customers to always consult a physician or a certified medical professional before trying or using a new medical product.
Kevin Cleary has been a Health Products For You contributor for many years and has a degree in marketing. His health and wellness journey has a very personal meaning and has guided him in his content writing for HPFY.
In 2006, ...
What Everyone Should Know About Resistance Band Colors
Resistance exercise bands come in a number of colors and it’s not just for decoration. Many people use these bands however, they do not have the knowledge of the colors and the purpose with which they are designed.
5 Facts about Syringes You Wish You Knew Before
A syringe is a pump consisting of a snugly fit piston(or plunger) within a calibrated glass or plastic cylinder called a barrel.The syringe is equipped with a hypodermic needle, nozzle, or tubing that helps direct the flow of medication.
TOP 5 BEST REVIEWED NEBULIZERS OF 2022
Breathing disorders, such as COPD or asthma, can be a major detriment when it comes to quality-of-life issues.Treating these breathing ailments with medications is the main course of treatment.Being able to deliver aerosol medication directly into the lungs in an expedited fashion is the best way to manage these lung disorders. The use of a nebulizer for aerosol medications allows for the efficient and easy delivery of these medications.
MINERAL OIL VS SALINE ENEMA: WHICH ONE TO CHOOSE?
An enema is used for many reasons.Just as there are many reasons, there are different types of enemas, each of which contains different ingredients and works differently in the body. While some may choose an enema to soften stool or for routine colon cleansing, the reason for using an enema may have more of a medical necessity.
FIVE BEST CERVICAL TRACTION DEVICES OF 2022
Cervical traction is a technique applied to the cervical region of the body to help alleviate neck pain, discomfort, and other physical conditions related to the cervical region.Cervical traction works by stressing the neck, pulling, and pushing, thus reducing the pressure on the spine, the neck, and the upper torso.Excessive stress on the neck, spine, and upper region, due to a wide range of conditions or injuries can cause severe pain and can lead to other complications.Cervical traction devices help alleviates these conditions thus offering overall body rehabilitation and treatment options.
