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 product range covers everything from continence pads in numerous sizes and shapes to a full range of washable products including bed protection and attractive underwear. We even have specialised products for faecal incontinence and products specifically designed for gentlemen and juniors.
There are 4 different types of incontinence: stress, urge, overflow and fecal 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
Frequent urination with a strong jet. Involuntary bladder contractions, leaving behind 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.
FECAL INCONTINENCE
Lack of control over defecation, leading to involuntary loss of bowel contents. Constipation, diarrhea and involuntary bowel movements are symptoms of fecal 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.