Condom catheters and penile sheaths aren't right for everyone, but for many they're excellent alternatives or additions to incontinence pants for men.
Millions of men of all ages experience some degree of urinary incontinence. While it's most common among older men, aging isn't the only cause; nerve and muscle damage, post-surgical complications, and even certain medications are just some of the many things that can lead to incontinence.
Special incontinence pants for men provide secure, leakproof protection for most men in most situations. Modern briefs made specifically for incontinence management can be worn with liners or pads that block leakage and keep outer garments dry, and for additional protection they can be worn beneath waterproof plastic or vinyl underpants.
But for some men in certain situations, special incontinence underwear may not always be the best solution. If you or someone you care for is having difficulty managing incontinence, there are alternatives you may want to consider.
Condom catheters, also referred to as urinary sheaths, are simple, cost-effective external catheter systems that can provide secure protection for extended periods. The systems generally consist of a flexible, condom-like sheath that fits over the penis and is held in place with straps or a medical grade adhesive. The sheath is connected by tubing to a urine collection bag, which is worn on the leg and held in place with straps or a leg sleeve.
For men with moderate to severe incontinence, this type of system can offer freedom and security that may be impossible to achieve with standard incontinence underwear alone. These external catheter systems can provide protection for extended periods and may remain in place for as long as 12 to 24 hours before changing. This makes them a good choice for men with limited mobility, as well as for overnight use, when traveling, or any time that access to a bathroom may be limited.
Urinary sheath systems must be properly fitted, both to ensure leakproof protection and to avoid skin irritation and chafing.
Penile pouches are another form of external catheter that can be a viable option for men with special needs. Penile retraction, common among elderly men, makes it impossible to secure a urinary sheath system along the length of the penis. Pouch systems solve that problem by substituting an ostomy-like pouch for the sheath. The pouch is generally secured at the base of the penis, though some are designed to be secured directly to the glans with special adhesive.
Flexible tubing connects the pouch to a collection bag, which is generally worn on the leg. However placement of the collection bag may be adjusted to accommodate men who are bed or wheelchair bound.
Because pouch systems can provide secure protection for as long as 12 hours, they may be a good choice for men who have extremely limited mobility. However, caretaker assistance may be required, both in positioning the pouch and in emptying and changing collection bags.
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