Important points to consider

• Some products must fit closely to the body to ensure they are effective, comfortable and discreet; for example, pads which are held in place by support pants or devices which stick to skin.
• Other products can be modified to fit different people. For example, drainage bag tubing can be extended or shortened, and some pads (for example all-in-one products) have adjustable fastenings such as resealable tabs.

Product suggestions

The sections below give information about product choice and body shape. Click on the links to be taken to the relevant product sections for more detail.

Pads

• Disposable and washable pads come in many different sizes (width and length) and shapes.
• Some insert pads are rectangular but most are now shaped to fit the body. Two-piece pad and pant systems require the pad to be held securely in place by stretch pants or closely fitting standard pants.
• Stretch pants are also manufactured in a range of sizes.
• All-in-one pads are available to fit a wide range of body sizes (for each absorbency level) including large, extra large and in some cases extra extra large.
• Pull-up style products are often elasticated for flexibility in fitting.
• Sometimes, getting a good fit requires a change in product style rather than size. For example, all-in-one style pads or pull-up products can be difficult to fit if you are particularly long between waist and crotch. You may find a two-piece pad and pant system more comfortable.
• Some manufacturers of washable products will make them to order to specified sizes.
• If you see a washable product you like the look of, it is always worth contacting the manufacturer to see if they offer this service. You may not need a larger size but rather a change in specific dimensions of the product such as increasing the waist to gusset measurement on a pant.

You can read more information about pads.

Male devices

• Male devices must be fitted carefully to the body for effective use. Some devices use straps around the waist and buttocks for this.
• Fitting with straps may be difficult if you have a large abdomen and / or are unable to see the penis during fitting. You may be able to manage fitting by feel alone.
• If you cannot achieve a good fit, there is an increased risk that the penis will become dislodged from the device allowing urine to leak.
• Excess fat around the pubic area and penile retraction can be a problem. If the penile length is reduced it may not be possible to use a standard sheath. Try using a petal device that adheres to the end (glans) of the penis.
• Some penile sheaths come in two lengths – standard and short. Choosing the right length for you will help to ensure that the sheath sticks securely to the shaft of the penis.
• A pubic pressure urinal places pressure around the base of the penis allowing the full length of the penis to be exposed for connection to a device.
• Sheaths are available in many circumferences (including small and very small sizes for children and young people). Most sheath manufacturers supply free sizing guides so you can easily check which diameter you need.

You can read more information about male devices.

Female devices

• Female devices need careful placement if they are to work effectively and safely.
• If you are very overweight you may find it difficult to place the devices in the urethra, vagina or over the urethral opening.
• Clean and accurate placement is particularly important with the urethral devices. You must be able to expose the opening of the urethra for insertion of the catheter to reduce the risk of infection.

You can read more information about female devices.

Catheters

• Careful catheter management is important. If you are very overweight, you may have difficulty visualising the connection between the urethral catheter and the drainage bag or catheter valve for changing these appliances.
• You may also have difficulty cleaning around the catheter where it enters your body.
• Long-term indwelling catheters usually lead to urinary tract infection and easily become blocked so hygiene and fluid intake are important.
• Male catheters are much longer than female catheters (to allow for the longer male urethra). Women can use a male length catheter which allows the catheter / drainage bag connection to be seen more clearly for easier management.
• Supra-pubic catheters (which enter the bladder via the abdomen) generally make access to the catheter easier. However, fat folds around the abdomen can make insertion and caring for the catheter difficult.
• Intermittent self-catheterisation depends on easy access to the urethra. Some catheter manufacturers supply devices to help with catheter insertion; for example, an extension handle which attaches to the catheter.

You can read more information about indwelling catheters.

Faecal devices

• These tend to require careful placement for maximum effect. If you have difficulty twisting around or reaching between your legs you might find it hard to use these devices. In this case, a close fitting pad and pant system might be easier to manage.

You can read more information about faecal devices.

Toileting aids

• Successful use of many toileting aids depends on trial and error rather than fit to the body or your size.
• Ask your HCP to lend you different aids to try out. Some have a hand-held ‘urinal library’ ¹.
• Some toileting aids may take quite a bit of practice to make them work effectively for you. Commodes, sanichairs and some bidets and toilet seats are manufactured in different sizes.
• Being comfortable when using the toilet is important. If you have a physical disability that affects your shape, you may have to try a number of aids to get a comfortable and effective solution for you.
• Bottom wipers can be helpful if you have difficulty cleaning yourself after using the toilet.

You can read more information about toileting aids.

Tips from product users

• Use a small mirror to check the skin between your legs if you find you are getting sore and are unable to reach down to look.

Sharing tips is an important aspect of this website. Please click on Contact to leave your 'user tips'.