Which incontinence product is right for you?
Updated 1 October 2026
The right incontinence product depends on four things: what leaks (urine, bowel or both), how much leaks at a time, whether it is day or night, and how the person gets changed. A pull-up suits someone who walks and uses the toilet on their own. An all-in-one brief suits someone who is changed lying down. A shaped pad with fixation pants is often the lowest-cost option for moderate leaks. Start with the lowest absorbency that keeps you dry, and step up only if it leaks. Use waist and hip measurements to pick a size, because a gap at the legs causes more leaks than a pad that is too small.
Why not just buy the most absorbent product?
Too much padding is bulky, costs more, and can trap moisture against the skin. Start lower and step up.
Can I wear two pads at once?
No. The waterproof back of the inner pad stops the outer pad absorbing, so urine runs out the sides.
When should I see a doctor?
If leaking started suddenly, or there is blood in urine or stool, pain, burning or fever, see your GP. These can have a treatable cause. You can also get free advice from a continence nurse on the National Continence Helpline, 1800 33 00 66.
Can NDIS or CAPS pay for these?
Often, yes. NDIS can fund continence products from Core – Consumables, and the Continence Aids Payment Scheme (CAPS) helps eligible people with yearly costs.
Why do "drops" differ between brands?
Drops are each brand's own scale. We compare products by tested absorbency in ml (ISO 11948-1) instead.