How do I find the right incontinence product?

Bladder leaks happen more often than you’d think. Whether it’s from getting older, prostate issues, surgery, or a chronic condition,1 you’re not alone. And when it comes to finding the right incontinence product, that’s a personal choice. And it’s one that can make a real difference in how you feel day to day.

This guide is here to make that process simple. No embarrassment, no awkward talk. Just straightforward, practical advice to help you find what works best for you. So you can get back to living life on your terms, with comfort and confidence.

Let’s face it. Navigating incontinence can feel overwhelming at first. But here’s the truth: it may take a bit of trial and error, but with the right guidance, you’ll find something that fits your body, your lifestyle, and your needs.

These six simple steps will help you feel more confident and in control. Let's start with understanding what kind of leakage you’re dealing with.

Figuring Out the Type and Severity of Your Incontinence

Understanding your type of incontinence is a great first step. There are several kinds that affect men:

• Stress Incontinence: Leaks happen during moments like coughing, sneezing, or lifting heavy objects, that puts pressure on the bladder.¹
• Urge incontinence: You feel a sudden, intense need to pee and can’t always make it to the bathroom in time.¹
• Overflow incontinence: Your bladder doesn’t fully empty, leading to frequent dribbling.¹
• Functional incontinence: You can’t reach the toilet in time due to mobility issues or another physical or cognitive reason.¹
• Mixed incontinence: A combo of the above types, often stress and urge.¹

Want to learn more? Check out our guides on types of male incontinence and understanding urinary incontinence in adults.

Common causes include prostate conditions, aging, surgery, or ongoing medical issues.¹ Pay attention to your leakage pattern: when it happens and how much. Knowing whether it’s occasional dribbles or full-on leaks will ultimately help guide your product choice.

How Often Are You Experiencing Leaks?

Frequency matters. Some men only notice the occasional leak, while others experience more regular or heavier leakage. Ask yourself:

• Are these daily occurrences or do they happen just now and then?²
• Do leaks happen during certain activities or times of day?

Try journaling your symptoms in a bladder diary for a few days.² It’s a helpful way to track patterns. Frequency directly affects how absorbent your product needs to be. Occasional leaks might only need a light guard, while heavier or more frequent leaks may call for protective underwear or briefs.

Get to Know the Different Types of Products

There’s no one-size-fits-all. TENA offers a range of products designed specifically for men, so you can find something that suits your needs and lifestyle.

• TENA Men Incontinence Protective Guards: These are discreet, stick-on pads ideal for light leakage and dribbles. They’re shaped to suit the male body and fit comfortably in snug-fitting underwear. Great for everyday confidence without bulk.
• TENA Men Protective Underwear: This pull-up style incontinence underwear looks and feels like regular briefs, but with moderate absorbency built in. A solid choice for active days and moderate leaks, offering both comfort and protection.
• TENA Incontinence Briefs: These briefs are made for heavier incontinence, including overnight use or when you need maximum security. They offer a snug, adjustable fit and high absorbency, ideal if mobility is a challenge or you’re managing more significant leakage.

Pros and cons:

• Guards are lightweight and discreet but may not handle larger leaks.
• Underwear offers better absorbency and a secure fit but is a bit less discreet than guards.
• Briefs are super absorbent and secure but less discreet, perfect for nighttime or at-home wear.

Match the Product to Your Needs and Lifestyle

Your lifestyle matters. Ask yourself:

• Are you active or often on the go?
• Do you work long shifts or attend social events regularly?
• Do you need overnight protection?

Look for products that match your absorbency needs: light, moderate, or heavy. Also consider:

• Discreetness: Is it visible under your clothes?
• Odor control: Does it keep you feeling fresh?
• Breathability: Is it comfortable to wear for long periods?

Choosing a product that suits your lifestyle can make all the difference in how you feel day-to-day.

Try It Out and Adjust if Needed

Don’t stress about getting it perfect on the first try. It’s totally normal to experiment until you find the right fit.

• Try sample packs or buy small quantities at first.
• You may prefer one style for the day and another for nighttime.
• Your needs might change over time and your product choice can evolve with you.

Think of this as a process, not a one-time decision.

Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Help or Guidance

You don’t have to figure it all out alone. If you feel awkward discussing bladder leaks, there are a few support measures.²

• A medical professional can help diagnose the type and cause of incontinence and recommend suitable products.²
• Support groups or forums offer real-world tips from others going through the same thing. ²

Most importantly, remember that this is a common health concern, and there’s no shame in seeking support.

Still unsure? Take our quiz to find the right incontinence solution for you.

When you're ready to shop, TENA has a wide range of incontinence products made specifically for men. You’ll find:

• Discreet online ordering
• Subscription options, so you never run out
• Trusted quality from TENA

Start with incontinence products for men to browse styles that match your needs.

If you’ve never seen an incontinence guard before, it can be tricky to know how to use them. But don’t worry, we’re here to help. All you need to do is:

• Unwrap the product and remove the paper backing. 
• Holding the wider end upwards, stick the adhesive strip down and secure in your underwear. 

That’s it! These products fit securely in tight-fitting underwear. Dispose of the used product in the trash and do not flush down the toilet.

Want more tips? Read: How to Wear Male Incontinence Pads, Guards, and Shields

What’s the Best Overnight Underwear for Men with Incontinence? Are Pull-Ups My Only Option?

Nighttime leaks can be frustrating, but the good news is that there are reliable options designed specifically for overnight protection. While pull-ups like TENA Men Protective Underwear offer great absorbency and a close-to-body fit, you’ve also got other choices.

You might consider:

• Tab-style briefs like TENA ProSkin™ Stretch Ultra Briefs: Ideal for heavier overnight leaks. The adjustable tabs allow for a snug, secure fit, even when lying down.
• Absorbent bed pads: Add an extra layer of protection to your sheets for peace of mind. These can be especially helpful for those with very heavy leakage or mobility challenges.

No matter what you choose, comfort and leak protection are absolutely possible with the right product. For more insights, check out our guide on the causes of nighttime male incontinence and explore overnight incontinence products for men.

How Often Should I Change My Incontinence Guard?

Great question! It’s something many people wonder about when starting out. There’s no strict rule, but here are some helpful guidelines:

• Change your guard as soon as it feels wet or uncomfortable. Staying dry helps prevent skin irritation and keeps you feeling fresh.
• If you have light leakage, you may only need to change it every few hours.
• For heavier leaks or more active periods of the day, you might need to change it more frequently.
• Overnight, it’s best to use a product designed for longer wear, and you may not need to change it until morning.

As you get used to wearing incontinence products, you’ll figure out a routine that works for you. Need a bit more guidance? Here’s a helpful article on how many times you should change your guard in a day.

Take the First Step Toward Comfort and Confidence

Choosing the right incontinence product doesn’t have to be complicated and you don’t have to figure it out alone. With a little guidance and some trial and error, you’ll find the protection that works best for your body and your lifestyle. Whether you’re managing light dribbles or overnight leaks, there’s a solution out there designed with you in mind.