Types of Incontinence

Abena offers a wide range of incontinence pads to help with continence management and improve the quality of life for those who live with these symptoms.

Our incontinence supplies cover everything from incontinence pads in numerous sizes and shapes to bed protection products such as absorbent under pads and protective sheets. We even have specialised products like faecal incontinence pads, gender specific products such as male incontinence pads shaped for the male anatomy and junior products.

There are 4 different types of incontinence: stress, urge, overflow and faecal incontinence. Below is an overview of the most typical symptoms for each one of them.

STRESS INCONTINENCE

Normally caused by a weak pelvic region. Laughter, coughing, lifting etc. can increase the pressure on the bladder, which may leak urine. Stress incontinence is predominantly found among women.

URGE INCONTINENCE

The loss of urine associated with a strong urge to urinate – often the person with this symptom does not reach the toilet in time. Urge incontinence is found equally among men and women.

OVERFLOW INCONTINENCE

The slightest increase of pressure on the bladder makes it ‘run over’. The feeling of having to urinate does not occur until the bladder is completely full. This means urination is frequent during the day and leakage comes in small amounts with a weak jet. It is hard to start the urination process with the normal urination impulse and the abdominal muscle is often used to keep urination going to empty the bladder.

FaECAL INCONTINENCE

Lack of control over defecation, leading to involuntary loss of bowel contents. Constipation, diarrhea and involuntary bowel movements are symptoms of faecal incontinence. The symptoms can occur separately or simultaneously.

Each type of incontinence can lead to different degrees of leakage, which is why it is important to find the right incontinence product for your individual need.