A Guide to Bladder Control Pads

This piece has been reviewed for accuracy by Allison Pullen, Urology Sales Manager.

Whether you experience occasional urinary leaks or more frequent dribbling, bladder control pads can provide the comfort and confidence needed to go about your daily activities free of worry. 

In this guide, we'll explore the different types of bladder control pads available and how to choose the right one for your needs. You can also check to see if you qualify for insurance-covered bladder control pads to receive them for free with Aeroflow Urology.

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What Are Bladder Control Pads?

Bladder control pads, sometimes called incontinence pads or liners, are the ultimate choice for individuals seeking a protective, discreet product. Bladder control pads are thin yet absorbent, disposable pads that are worn inside your undergarments, staying in place with an adhesive backing. These pads are excellent options for those with light urinary incontinence. 

arms holding male guard bladder control padarms holding male guard bladder control pad

Bladder Control Pad Features & Benefits

Bladder control pads are equipped with a variety of features that help keep you feeling dry and comfortable while being discreet.

  • Breathable material: Soft, breathable material with absorbent polymer core to wick away moisture and prevent skin irritation.
  • Odor control: Odor-controlling technology to lock in odors. 
  • Adhesive backing: Sticky backing to keep the pad in place and provide a secure fit. 
  • Discreet fit: Ultra-thin pads to be worn discreetly under clothing.
  • Multiple lengths: Regular and long lengths for a comfortable fit.
  • Multiple absorbencies: Range of absorbency levels for ultimate protection.
twisting bladder control padtwisting bladder control pad
woman grabbing bladder control padwoman grabbing bladder control pad

Bladder Control Pads for Women

Many women experience urinary leakage due to aging, pregnancy, childbirth, menopause, or other medical conditions.

Bladder control pads are the perfect solution for women managing these conditions who are looking for a discreet product they can wear at home, in the office, or at night. Incontinence pads for women come in a variety of absorbency levels, are designed to fit the female body, and are worn inside the underwear.

Bladder Control Pads for Men

Some men may experience incontinence due to aging, prostate issues, and other medical conditions. Certain male incontinence products, like male guards, are perfect for controlling light urinary leakage.

Male guards are specifically designed to fit the male anatomy, providing comfortable and discreet protection against bladder leaks or urinary dribbling. These incontinence liners are small and contoured so wearing them inside underwear is comfortable. They are designed to fit snugly against the penis and are held in place by an adhesive strip. Male guards are available in a range of absorbencies, from light to heavy.

man holding male guardman holding male guard
unisex adult pull onunisex adult pull on

Unisex Bladder Control Pads

Unisex incontinence pads are made for both men and women with light urinary leakage. They are contoured to fit every body type, shape, and size comfortably. Unisex pads ensure anyone who wears them feels confident that they’ll be protected from bladder leakage.

Are Bladder Control Pads Right for You?

Incontinence pads are excellent choices for individuals with light urinary incontinence. They’re absorbent enough to wear overnight, yet discreet enough to wear under clothing without feeling bulky. Use these questions to determine whether bladder control pads are right for you.

  1. Do you experience light urinary leakage or dribbling throughout the day? If so, the absorbency level and fit of bladder control pads may be a great choice to keep you feeling dry.
  2. Do you need assistance using the restroom? If so, bladder control pads may not be the easiest incontinence product to use. You may want to use a product that’s more suited for easier changes with assistance, such as an adult brief. 
  3. What level of discretion do you desire in your protective product? Bladder control pads are one of the most discreet incontinence supplies you can wear, so if you’re looking for discretion during your day, these may be the right option for you. 
man packing bladder control padsman packing bladder control pads

How to Find the Right Bladder Control Pad

Finding the right size and absorbency level of bladder control pad is essential to keep you feeling dry and fresh. Your pad should fit comfortably in your clothing and not irritate your skin or leak out. 

You can find your bladder control pad size with our Sizing Chart.

Bladder Control Pad Lengths

Bladder control pads come in a variety of sizes, so it's important to choose one that fits your body comfortably and securely. Our bladder pad sizes vary based on the level of absorbency you need, but they vary from regular pads to long pads. These sizes can fall anywhere from 7.5” to 16”.

  • Regular Length: Typical-length pads starting at 7.5”
  • Long Length: Longer pads that cover from front to back starting at 8.35”

Bladder Control Pad Absorbency Levels

For those with light leaks, a light pad will do the trick. However, for those with moderate to heavy incontinence, a more absorbent pad may be necessary.

  • Light absorbency: Light leakage (less than 3 cups of leakage).
  • Moderate absorbency: Moderate leakage (about 3 cups of leakage).
  • Heavy absorbency: Heavy leakage (3.75 cups of leakage).
  • Overnight absorbency: Severe overnight leakage (3.75+ cups of leakage).
open pack of bladder control padsopen pack of bladder control pads
woman putting bladder control pad in pursewoman putting bladder control pad in purse

When to Change Your Bladder Control Pad

It’s important to change out your bladder control pad when you’ve had leakage to avoid skin irritation and other issues like urinary tract infections (UTIs). Try to change your pad when you recognize you’ve had an accident. 

Can You Wear 2 Incontinence Products at Once?

Wearing 2 incontinence products at once, such as adult protective underwear and a bladder control pad, won’t make your primary product more absorbent. It can actually have the opposite effect by trapping more moisture around your body since protective products have moisture-proof backings that trap in wetness. 

Our Favorite Adult Protective Underwear Brands

Aeroflow Urology carries a variety of bladder control pads. Each has its own unique features and benefits. It’s important to choose a pad that fits you well, is comfortable, and provides adequate protection for your level of leakage.

Prevail Daily Pant Liners Bladder Control Pads Unisex

Prevail Daily Pant Liners Bladder Control Pads Unisex

Prevail is a leading brand in the incontinence industry, known for producing high-quality bladder control pads that help people with incontinence manage their symptoms and live more comfortably. Their bladder pads are designed to provide reliable protection against leaks and accidents. Prevail also offers a range of other incontinence products, including adult diapers, protective underwear, and underpads. 

Prevail Daily Pant Liners offer heavy absorbency for both women and men to protect against bladder incontinence. The adhesive strip keeps the liner in place to prevent unwanted leaks. The light, breathable materials keep these pads comfortable for daily wear.

Features:

  • Designed for both men and women.
  • Omni-Odor Guard to manage odors before they start.
  • MaxSorb Gel Technology turns leaks into a gel for maximum protection.
  • Soft material for sensitive skin.
  • Adhesive strip for a secure fit.
  • Breathable, cloth-like outer fabric.

TENA Sensitive Care Bladder Control Pads for Women

TENA Sensitive Care Bladder Control Pads for Women

TENA is a brand that specializes in personal care products for those living with incontinence issues. Their bladder control pads are designed for discreet protection and absorbency for individuals experiencing light to moderate urinary leakage. TENA bladder control pads are available in assorted sizes, shapes, and absorbency levels to cater to unique needs and preferences.

TENA Sensitive Care bladder control pads come in a variety of lengths and absorbencies to protect against multiple degrees of leakage. These pads feature a full-length adhesive strip to keep them securely in place throughout the day or night.

Features:

  • Designed to fit the female anatomy.
  • Can be used as postpartum pads for new moms with leakage.
  • Odor control technology to stop odors before they start.
  • 100% breathable for ultimate skin comfort.
  • ProSkin Technology to wick away fluids.

Covidien Sure Care Male Guards for Men

Covidien Sure Care Male Guards for Men

Covidien specializes in providing healthcare products to meet the needs of people with various medical conditions. Covidien manufactures incontinence supplies, such as adult briefs, protective underwear, and bladder pads. Their bladder control pads are designed to help those who experience bladder leakage or incontinence.

Covidien Sure Care male guards provide ultra-absorbency for men that need extra leakage protection. These pads can be added directly to undergarments. They keep moisture away from skin and protect clothing from becoming wet.

Features:

  • Super-absorbent polymers for maximum liquid retention.
  • Moisture wicking soft pad to keep skin dry.
  • Soft top-cloth for sensitive skin.
  • Comfortable contouring designed for the male anatomy.
  • Blue barrier cuff to prevent leaks from the inside.

Does Insurance Cover Bladder Control Pads?

Private health insurance includes any company not based on state or federal government health coverage. These companies include Blue Cross Blue Shield, United Healthcare, Cigna, etc. Private insurance plans vary in terms of bladder control pad coverage. Some companies may reimburse for bladder control pads, while others may not. Even companies that offer coverage may have monthly restrictions on incontinence supplies. 

For those enrolled in Medicaid or Medicaid-managed care plans, your coverage for bladder control pads will vary by your specific insurance plan and the state you live in. Since Medicaid is run by the government and individual states, each state has different insurance plans with their own sets of requirements and guidelines for incontinence supply coverage. 

To determine if your or your loved one’s insurance plan covers bladder control pads, complete our Eligibility Form

Does Medicaid Cover Bladder Control Pads?

Depending on your insurance plan, your Medicaid or Medicaid-managed care plan may cover bladder control pads, but it depends on the state you live in, your specific insurance plan, and your certain requirements. 

We can help you quickly and easily determine if you can receive bladder control pads and other incontinence products 100% covered by insurance. 

Getting bladder control pads covered by insurance couldn’t be easier and it all happens in 4 simple steps!

  1. You fill out our Eligibility Form. Our form is secure and we never share your information with any third parties. After submitting your insurance and personal criteria, we’ll reach out to you in 1-2 business days and inform you of your coverage. Your eligibility will be determined by the state you live in, your specific insurance plan, and your incontinence diagnosis.
  2. You select your bladder control pad. Once you qualify, you’ll be given a curated shopping list that only includes products that are 100% covered by your specific insurance plan. You’ll be able to choose from our wide array of medical-grade bladder control pads that fit you best. If you have any questions along the way, one of our expert Continence Care Specialists will be there to answer them. 
  1. You Get Your Prescription. In order for us to prove that your bladder pads are medically necessary, we need to show your Medicaid insurer that you have a prescription for incontinence products. We’ll ask your healthcare provider for the prescription on your behalf, but you can get your products to your door even faster if you let them know we’ll be reaching out.
  2. Your products arrive! After placing your order, we’ll ship it to your home for free in discreet, unmarked packaging. After your first order, you’ll be sent an email or text message when it’s time to refill your supplies

Does Medicaid Cover Other Incontinence Products?

We offer other incontinence products that may be covered by Medicaid, including:

  • Underpads (chux).
  • Booster pads.
  • Adult protective underwear. 
  • Adult diapers (adult briefs).
  • Pediatric diapers.
  • Pediatric pull-ups.
  • Youth training pants.
  • Gloves
  • Wipes

Disclaimer

*Medicaid coverage varies by state. Submitting your info is not a guarantee of benefit.