Smarter, more environmentally friendly options for Male Incontinence Management
Male Incontinence Management does not have to revolve around just pads, pads pads.........
Smarter more environmentally sustainable solutions from iMEDicare - Pelvic Health Naturally exist: www.MyPelvicHealth.co.uk.
As we consider ways to improve our ecological footprint whilst offering men more flexibility to improve their quality of life - re-useable incontinence management solutions are coming to the fore as part of a Mix and Match approach that will be more sustainable in the future.
The Three Rs: Reduce, Reuse, Recycle:
With origins in the American ‘Earth movement’ of the early 1970s, the three Rs are often used as a framework to consider ways of reducing waste. They are now part of day-to-day environmental language: “reduce the amount of waste created, reuse items that could have a future purpose and recycle whenever possible” (Recycle Nation, 2015). In continence care, reducing or curing incontinence is the most desirable goal...
Mix and Match:
Most studies of continence products show that one product type does not suit an individual at all times, and the concept of a ‘mix and match’ of products has been shown to be preferred by both women (Fader et al, 2008) and men (Macaulay et al, 2015).
Male Incontinence:
Studies show that approximately 1 in 10 men suffer from urinary incontinence of one type or another. When the pelvic floor becomes compromised or weakened as a result of common triggers such as prostate cancer surgery, high impact exercise or the natural ageing process, bladder weakness often results. Here iMEDicare explores alternative solutions that are more environmentally friendly than single use disposable pads. The number of people aged 65 and over will increase by more than 40% within 20 years, and the number of households where the oldest person is 85 and over is increasing faster than any other age group. These changes have profound implications for each of us, as well as for government, business and civil society.
► (Office of National Statistics, (2017), Principal projection – UK population in age groups, mid-2017 based.)
Managing Light to Moderate Stress Urinary Incontinence (SUI):
Washable Incontinence Underwear: Absorbent washable products usually comprise three main layers: an absorbent core sandwiched between a water-proof backing beneath and a water-permeable coverstock (or topsheet) next to the wearer’s skin. Washable absorbent cores are usually made from a needlefelt or knitted fabric comprising rayon and/or polyester fibres. A variety of polymers are used for the water-proofing. In general, the thicker, stiffer materials are more durable (the durability of the plastic backing often determines the lifetime of the product) but less comfortable. Top sheets are usually made from either cotton – which is hydrophilic and intended to have good dry comfort, or polyester – which is hydrophobic and intended to have good wet comfort.
Wearever offers ground breaking undergarments for people with urinary incontinence, providing a reusable, washable alternative to adult diapers. The men’s briefs are especially beneficial for home users. Featuring a diverse range of styles (Classic Brief/Boxer Brief/Boxer for MEN and colours (White/Blue/Dark Grey) with sizes up to 5X. Wearever absorbent products have a Triple Layer Hydrex System: a top sheet that wickers moisture away from the skin, and a core area that locks in the moisture with absorption capacities ranging from 150ml to 650ml, with a waterproof outer layer – offering continence control without compromising on style or comfort.
Re-useability:
Wearever can be washed and reused between 200-250 times, resulting in a cost per day of pennies. Wearever garments come in a variety of woven materials, allowing perspiration to evaporate from the skin, keeping the skin cooler and minimizing the conditions for skin maceration and break down. Wearever garments are sized to fit and mold to body contours. They are woven without rigid seams or pressure points. The feel and comfort is the same as one’s ordinary undergarment. Wearever garments are worn as normal underwear. There are no special devices or inserts. Simply slip them on to wear and launder as you would normal underwear. Wearever Washables are available to buy from iMEDicare directly on this link, and can be supplied by some community continence teams depending on local CCG policy.
Pacey Cuff Ultra Urethral Control Device:
The Pacey Cuff is a re-useable male urethral control device (sometimes known as a penile compression device) that helps with urinary incontinence. It is wrapped around the penile shaft close the glans or tip and can be worn all day and restricts urine flow while allowing blood flow, given its unique circular design with padded urethral bridge and fenestrated hood (hat section that protects the neuro-vascular bundle). The device fits the male penile anatomy, as the major vein and artery are on the dorsal surface and the urethra is on the ventral surface. It avoids the problems seen with conventional crocodile jaws style clamps, such as blood flow occlusion and irritation.
A prospective pilot study conducted by Jula A. , Logadottir Y. , Olsen Ekerhult T., Sahlgrenska Academy, Institute of clinical sciences, Dept. of Urology, Gothenburg, Sweden – May 2020 concluded “that Pacey Cuff Ultra shows promising results reducing leakage with minimal risks of complications. Quality of life is improved, even with persistent leakage when using the clamp. The penile clamp is a good treatment for patients unsuitable for incontinence surgery. However, patient selection is of utter importance regarding hand and cognitive function as well as the anatomy of the penis”.
Other indications include routine management of SUI post prostatectomy as Pacey Cuff is small, discrete and re-useable.
PaceyCuff Ultra is especially beneficial for active individuals who want to continue their normal lifestyle without worry or emotional stress resulting from incontinence. Being made chiefly from neoprene it copes well with water environments so can be used in the swimming pool or shower. Available in three size options (see sizing chart) and lasting up to a year of repeat daily use, Pacey Cuff Ultra is supplied by iMEDicare on this link with a 30 day full refund option.
Managing Moderate to Severe Stress Incontinence and Other Urinary Incontinence Types:
Conventional solutions here include heavy duty single use disposable pads or even the ever popular condom catheter – however alternatives do exist. ‘Body-worn urinal’ is a general term used to describe a wide range of male devices that are designed to collect urine as it leaves the body. They are mainly reusable, although they can have a disposable part such as a urine collection bag. They offer an alternative to a disposable sheath system and are secured in place using either straps, specially designed underwear or occasionally adhesive. There is limited research on these types of products but they probably work best if you are standing or walking, however can work well for sedentary patients with functional incontinence when adapted correctly.
For heavier cases of S.U.I. or for other incontinence scenarios, the Afex Core Urinal Device is practically a portaloo strapped to the pelvic region, so you don’t have to plan your excursion around the location of public toilets. Featuring an ergonomic jock strap style brief (or boxer short option) that houses a durable penile receptacle, urine leakages small and large drain effortlessly into a double sealed collection bag on the inner thigh via a non-return flapper valve. For wheelchair bound patients – one can use an extension tube and leg bag housed in a leg wrap. Simply empty the bag when convenient and reset the clock on those long outdoor excursions or day trips. Body-worn urinals are available in a range of designs. Ensuring a good, comfortable fit will improve the success of the product. One research study of one type of body-worn urinal found that expert guidance and fitting led to increased acceptability among testers and is key to the success of the product (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25496354/). Some manufacturers can provide specialist fitting help. iMEDicare provide such a customised trial service – for more information visit their website on this link as Afex and all accessories are available on community FP10 prescription via your family doctor.
Managing Urinary Incontinence in the Context of a Retracted or Buried Penis:
There are three common causes of adult onset buried penis: Class III obesity: Excess fat around the abdomen and genital area can make the penis appear to be hidden. Lymphedema: Swelling around the scrotum area due to the collection of lymph fluid may cause the penis to become buried inside tissue Chronic Erectile Dysfunction – severe dis-use atrophy, especially in the context of a reducing testosterone level in the aging male.
Who are penile retraction devices good for?
They are useful for men who are unable to wear a traditional sheath (either shaft too short, or there has been skin excoriation) or body-worn device and who wish to leave the house for longer periods when it may not be possible to access a toilet to change a pad and also simply for overnight use, or to obviate the need for a use of a foley catheter with associated risk of Urinary Tract Infection.
The Men's Liberty Modified Petal Sheath Device
The BioDerm male external penile glans petal sheath device (aka Men’s Liberty) is ideal for men with a retracted penile anatomy or who's body shape make's fitting a conventional penile sheath difficult. A hydrocolloid adhesive provides a strong skin friendly seal around the urethra, that softly stretches and moves with the man as you change position, directing urine to the leg or bed bag of your choice. Visit Website Features and Benefits: How Does It Work? Men’s Liberty is made from hydrocolloid, a proprietary adhesive
Features and Benefits:
How Does It Work? Men’s Liberty is made from hydrocolloid, a proprietary adhesive that creates a secure, skin friendly seal around the urinary opening. Hydrocolloid has been used successfully in wound and ostomy treatment for decades and is not made with natural latex.
Men’s Liberty:
• Has a completely external design
• Fits most male anatomy – one size fits most concept (retractile foreskin required).
• Keeps men dry and comfortable
• Average wear time of 24+ hours
• Dependably replaces diapers, condom catheters and medically unnecessary Foley catheters
• Available on NHS FP10 Community Formulary – so iMEDicare also provide a free product trials and demonstration service – more information here.
Men’s Liberty is the discreet, dignified, dependable alternative for the management of all types of urinary incontinence in the context of a retracted penis. Careful skin preparation is important to success – the skin must be cleaned with a non-moisturizing. A penile compression device can be used to stem the escape of urine during the fitting process to improve chances of success (dry penile glans skin is essential)
All of the products above are available from iMEDicare via their website: www.MyPelvicHealth.co.uk or email info@mypelvichealth.co.uk or simply call 00441923237795 – they will be delighted to assist you on your sustainable continence management journey.
THE DIFFERENT TYPES OF INCONTINENCE:
Believe it or not, incontinence is not just one thing. So far we have focused our discussion on primarily the management of Stress Urinary Incontinence (S.U.I.). However, there are in fact, multiple forms of incontinence which you should be aware of. All kinds of persistent urinary incontinence involve recurring episodes of involuntary leakage, but still, there are different types. It is not always obvious which one you may have, but your doctor can help you determine which one you have by talking to you about your symptoms and through the diagnosis process
STRESS OR EFFORT INCONTINENCE
Involves leakage with a cough or sneeze. This is because of a weakened muscle in the bladder called the sphincter. It can happen in women who have gone through pregnancy, childbirth, or menopause, and men can get it after their prostates have been removed.
OVERFLOW INCONTINENCE
Involves the continual leakage of urine. Prostate gland conditions, a blocked urethra, and nerve damage (such as from uncontrolled diabetes, multiple sclerosis, or an injury to the spinal cord) can all cause Overflow Incontinence.
URGE INCONTINENCE
Involves a sudden feeling that you need to go. Overactive bladder is a type of Urge Incontinence, and it is triggered by bladder spasms. Your risk is higher after pregnancy or if you are overweight.
FECAL OR DOUBLE INCONTINENCE
Involves the involuntary release of faeces or faeces and urine simultaneously. Common causes of Faecal Incontinence include muscle problems, nerve damage, and certain illnesses.
MIXED INCONTINENCE
Involves a variety of specific symptoms resulting from weaker bladder muscles. It is more common in older women and can often be treated with lifestyle therapy. You can also experience temporary Urinary Incontinence, which can happen if you drink too much caffeinated coffee or tea, over-hydrate, drink alcohol, or take certain medications.
