Incontinence Myths Debunked: Separating Fact from Fiction

Did you know that nearly 3.3 million Canadians — about 10% of the population — experience urinary incontinence? Despite how common it is, incontinence is surrounded by myths that often make managing it feel more challenging than it needs to be. Let's debunk some of the most common ones we hear at Healthwick!

Myth #1: Incontinence only affects the elderly.

Fact: Incontinence is a condition that can impact people of all ages, including young adults and even teens. While age can increase the risk, factors like high-impact sports, pregnancy, chronic health conditions, and surgery can lead to incontinence in younger individuals. This widespread condition is far more common across age groups than many people realize.

Myth #2: Incontinence products are bulky and uncomfortable.

Fact: Incontinence products have come a long way, with modern options designed to be discreet, comfortable, and absorbent. From slim pull-ups to adjustable tab-style briefs, there are various products to suit every lifestyle and level of need. Incontinence underwear, for example, now looks and feels more like regular underwear, allowing you to go about your day with confidence.

Tranquility SlimLine Briefs These High performance briefs deliver superior absorbency. The "Peach Mat Construction" guarantees skin dryness, odour control, bacterial control and pH neutralization. These briefs are soft and comfortable. The refastenable tape tabs enable multiple opening and closing of the brief.

Myth #3: Everyone can tell you’re wearing an adult diaper. 

Fact: This misconception is not true, and it just takes a bit of trying out products and seeing what works best for you to ensure the best discreet option for you. Fortunately, with our free sample program, you can try up to 5 samples of products you think may work best for you. Once you find which worked best for you, you can place an order. This way, you’ll choose the most discreet product, and no one will be able to tell you’re wearing an incontinence product.

We have a selection of products for different levels of absorbency. If you have light leakage, pads and male guards may be what you’re looking for. If you face moderate to heavy incontinence, absorbent underwear could be the right choice for you. Lastly, if you have moderate to maximum incontinence, adult diapers/ briefs are likely the product for you.

	Abena San Premium Pad - Level 7 Anatomically shaped for moderate to heavy incontinence, with a high-performance core, wetness indicator, and Top-Dry Technology for fast absorption to help maintain skin integrity and balance. Stay comfortable with full breathability, 360° leakage protection, and advanced odour control. Embrace each day confidently with reliable and discreet bladder protection.
	Attends Underwear Attends Underwear looks, fits, and feels like regular underwear, offering a discreet and comfortable alternative to briefs. Made with breathable, cottony-soft fabric, it features a contour-shaped core with quick-dry channels for all-day dryness. ConfidenceCuff™ Protection and 360-degree belly elastics provide a secure, leak-free fit, while tear-away side panels ensure easy removal. Ideal for moderate to heavy incontinence.
	NorthShore MEGAMAX AirLock Adult Diapers MEGAMAX AirLock adult diapers provide maximum absorbency and comfort with their breathable, cloth-like exterior and 9 hours of absorbency. The secure plastic frontal landing zone and heavy-duty adhesive tabs provide secure fastening, while the extra wide and long contoured absorbent core offers extra added nighttime protection. The elastics in the front and rear waistband guarantee a snug and secure fit.

Myth #4: Drinking less water helps reduce incontinence.

Fact: Many people think cutting back on water can prevent leaks, but dehydration can actually irritate the bladder and worsen symptoms. Staying hydrated is essential for overall health, and many healthcare professionals recommend drinking water in moderation while avoiding certain bladder irritants, like caffeine and alcohol.

Myth #5: When you live with incontinence, there is an odour all the time.

Fact: This is not necessarily true, so long as you maintain good personal hygiene and use the correct products. Healthwick carries wipes and washcloths that can trap moisture and odour, thus providing peace of mind. Changing your incontinence product (diaper, underwear, pad, or male guard) as often as the packaging recommends also reduces the chances of odour and increases hygiene. 

	NorthShore Supreme Quilted Wipes North Shore Supreme Wipes are gentle and premoistened with Aloe and Calendula to soothe the skin, suitable for any area of the body. Quilting makes these wipes extra soft and absorbent.  Packaged in a soft pack with single-wipe pop-up dispensing for convenient one-handed use. Latex-free, hypoallergenic, unscented and alcohol-free.
	Because No-Rinse Cleansing Spray Because No-Rinse Cleansing Spray is specially developed for incontinence care, with a gentle non-drying spray designed to effectively clean and deodorize delicate skin. With its pH-balanced formula and infusion of Aloe Vera, Chamomile, and Vitamin E, this cleanser helps to protect and nourish skin.

Myth #6: Adult diapers only come in plain white. 

Fact: While many traditional incontinence products have been plain white, modern adult diapers now come in a variety of colours, prints, and patterns. These designs offer a more personalized experience, helping users feel a sense of individuality and style even in their incontinence products. Colours and prints can be a great choice for those who want something that feels a bit less clinical, providing both comfort and a touch of personality. Discover our collection of colours, prints and patterns here! 

We hope busting these 6 myths about incontinence helps put your mind at ease. Take care!