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.

Absorbent products

Disposable and washable absorbent products come in many different sizes (width and length) and shapes.

• Two-piece pad and pant systems require an insert pad to be held securely in place by special stretch pants or other closely fitting pants. Some insert pads are rectangular but most are shaped to fit the body and come in a range of sizes and absorbencies. Stretch pants are also manufactured in a range of sizes.

• All-in-one pads come in a range of absorbencies and are available to fit a wide range of body sizes including large, extra large and in some cases extra extra large. Their adhesive or velcro closures mean that each size can be used by a wide range of body sizes.

• Pull-on style products often have a high degree of elastication for flexibility in fitting.

That said, it may be difficult to find products in some sizes. This is especially true in retail outlets, which may limit their stock to the mostly commonly purchased medium or large sizes.¹ Some organisations have highlighted the need for a greater range of sizes, including sizes for older children, teenagers and young adults.²³

• Sometimes getting a good fit requires a change in product style rather than size. For example, all-in-one style pads or pull-on 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 all types of absorbent products in the sections on Absorbent products for women and Absorbent products for men.

Catheters

• Intermittent self-catheterisation depends on easy access to the urethra, and this may be more difficult if you are very overweight. Some catheter manufacturers supply devices to help with catheter insertion; for example, an extension handle which attaches to the catheter.

• Careful management of indwelling catheters 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. Women who have this problem can use male-length catheters, which are typically twice the length of female catheters (to allow for the longer male urethra). This allows the catheter / collection bag connection to be seen more clearly for easier management. In addition, urine collection bag tubing can be extended or shortened as needed.

• People who are very overweight may also have difficulty cleaning around the catheter where it enters the body. Long-term indwelling catheters often lead to urinary tract infection and can become blocked so hygiene and fluid intake are important.

• 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.

You can find more information about catheters here.

Male devices

• Male devices must be fitted carefully to the body for them to work well. 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.

• Ensuring a good fit can be difficult if you are unable to see the penis during fitting, although you may be able to manage fitting by feel alone.

• Some devices are held in place by straps around the waist and buttocks and this may be difficult if you have a large abdomen.

• Excess fat around the pubic area and penile retraction can be a problem. If the available penile length is reduced it may not be possible to use a standard sheath. There are several things you could try:

• 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. 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.

• A petal device that adheres to the end (glans) of the penis may be a useful alternative to a standard sheath.

• A pubic pressure urinal places pressure around the base of the penis allowing the full length of the penis to be exposed for easier connection to a device.

You can find more information about male devices and sheaths here.

Female devices

• Internal vaginal devices need careful placement if they are to work effectively and safely.

• You must be able to expose the opening of the urethra for clean insertion and accurate positioning.

• These devices can be difficult to fit if you are very overweight.

You can find more information about female devices here.

Faecal devices

• Faecal devices 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 find more information about faecal devices here.

Toileting aids

• Being comfortable and feeling secure 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. 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.

• In some regions, health care providers may be able to lend products so that you can find out which will suit you best.⁴

• Bottom wipers can be helpful if you have difficulty cleaning yourself after using the toilet.

Follow these links to find more information about toileting aids for women and toileting aids for men.

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'.