When it comes to managing incontinence, the right product can make all the difference in your comfort and confidence. Many women use period pads as a solution for incontinence simply because it’s what they’ve always used. However, there’s a big difference between period pads and incontinence pads (bladder control). Understanding the unique needs of incontinence and selecting the right pad can greatly improve your daily comfort and quality of life.

Bladder control pads and period pads serve different purposes, even though both are absorbent products designed to manage fluid.

• Incontinence pads are specifically designed for urinary incontinence. Whether you experience light leakage or larger bladder voids, these pads are created to handle the sudden and fast release of urine. Their higher absorbency levels and quick-drying materials help keep you dry and comfortable throughout the day.
• Period pads are made for absorbing menstrual blood, which is generally released more slowly and in smaller quantities. While they are effective at managing menstruation, they aren’t designed to cope with the faster, larger amounts of liquid that come with incontinence.

One of the most important differences between bladder control pads and period pads is their absorbency. Bladder control pads are designed to handle much more liquid than period pads, absorbing up to four times more fluid. This is essential for managing incontinence because a typical urine void is much larger and faster than menstrual flow.

Urine is also less viscous than menstrual blood, so bladder control pads are built to quickly wick away moisture and lock it into the core of the pad. In contrast, period pads are not equipped to absorb urine quickly enough, which can lead to leaks and discomfort.

The next time you find yourself wondering, “Do period pads work for incontinence?” remember that bladder control pads offer far superior protection and are designed specifically to handle the higher volume and quicker flow of urine.

The materials used in incontinence pads and period pads are also tailored to their specific functions.

• Incontinence pads use advanced absorbent fabrics that rapidly draw moisture away from your skin, keeping you dry and preventing irritation. These materials are designed to neutralize odors and lock in liquid, offering long-lasting protection against leaks.
• Period pads are also made from absorbent fabrics, but they are not optimized for the faster flow of urine. While they work well for menstrual blood, their slower absorption rate can leave you feeling wet and uncomfortable when dealing with incontinence.

For women managing incontinence, the difference in materials can have a significant impact on your comfort and confidence throughout the day. Bladder control pads are built to absorb urine quickly, whereas menstrual pads are not equipped for the same demands.

Another important distinction between bladder control pads and period pads is their size and shape.

Bladder control pads tend to be larger and have a contoured design to offer better protection against leaks. They are often shaped to fit comfortably against your body, ensuring coverage where you need it most during sudden urine voids. This design helps prevent leaks and provides peace of mind, especially during more active moments. 

In contrast, period pads are generally smaller and designed for slower absorption over time. Their shape and size are suitable for menstruation but may not offer enough protection against incontinence.

One of the benefits of incontinence pads is their ability to offer long-lasting protection, meaning they typically need to be changed less frequently than menstrual pads.

Because bladder control pads absorb more liquid, they keep you feeling dry and comfortable for longer periods. On the other hand, using period pads or sanitary napkins for incontinence may require frequent changes, as they are not designed to handle larger fluid voids. This can lead to discomfort, irritation, and less confidence in your day-to-day activities.

Incontinence pads are designed with women managing incontinence in mind. Whether you’re dealing with occasional leakage or more frequent bladder control issues, these pads are tailored to provide the comfort, confidence, and protection you need.

Many women may continue using period pads simply because that’s what they’re used to. However, switching to bladder control pads can drastically improve comfort and peace of mind. These pads are made to handle the unique challenges of incontinence, offering better absorbency, protection, and odor control.

Bladder control pads also offer a financial advantage that period pads don’t—they are eligible for reimbursement through Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA). This means that you can get the protection and comfort you need while saving money in the process. Period pads do not offer this benefit, making bladder control pads a more cost-effective solution for women managing incontinence.

When managing incontinence, having a product that is specifically designed for this need is essential, and the new Attends Discreet Bladder Control Pads offer that perfect balance between comfort, security, and superior absorbency. These pads are tailored for women who are active and need a product that supports their lifestyle, and include:

• Perfect Fit with Advanced Protection: Designed to contour to a woman’s body, these pads provide a comfortable and secure fit, ensuring maximum protection while preventing leaks.
• Active-Flex™ for Comfort and Flexibility: Whether you’re at work, exercising, or on the move, the Active-Flex™ technology offers flexibility and comfort, allowing women to stay active without worrying about discomfort or shifting pads.
• Dermoprotective Cream for Skin Health: Attends Discreet Bladder Control Pads contain a dermoprotective cream that enhances skin hydration, reducing irritation and promoting healthier skin during daily use.
• Quick-Dry™ Channel: One of the standout features of Attends Discreet Bladder Control Pads is their Quick-Dry™ Channel. This technology ensures that liquid is absorbed faster than ever, helping to keep skin dry and comfortable throughout the day.

When it comes to managing incontinence, the right product can make all the difference. While period pads are effective for menstruation, they simply aren’t built to handle the demands of urinary incontinence. Bladder control pads offer greater absorbency, better materials, and a design that ensures comfort and protection throughout the day.

Choosing bladder control pads, like Attends, allows you to manage incontinence with confidence and ease. Don’t settle for less—make the switch to a product that’s designed for your unique needs.