Urinary incontinence is common during pregnancy and after birth, but something you don’t have to live with forever. In fact, the National Association for Continence reports 30 – 50 percent of childbearing women have UI. (How often do you hear moms joke about leaking?) While it can often be resolved with time and specific exercises, there are options that provide protection and confidence as you heal – including washable and incontinence underwear.
Until you are ready to work through your symptoms with a program like SLAM, we have curated a list of items you can add to your closet.
Although leakproof undergarments may not be the sexiest item in your closet, incontinence products are more discreet, absorbent, and offered in better designs than ever before.
Best Leak-Proof Underwear for Women
Check out the following companies for comfortable, discreet, and washable leak-proof underwear in a range of styles, colors, and sizes for women:
- Eco Leakproof Underwear(brief)–3 pack, $37
- Thinx Boy Short Underwear, $39
- Knix Leak Proof Bikini Brief, $30
If you are in the market for incontinence products, there are a few things to know:
Can You Wear Incontinence Underwear All Day?
Yes, you can wear all day or night, just like a regular pair of underwear.
Leak-proof underwear looks like ordinary cloth underwear, with a built-in panel of absorbent and leakproof material. It’s a great solution for women with light-to-moderate incontinence, the case for most postpartum moms. They can be washed in your normal laundry load, making them an eco-friendlier choice than disposable/single-use products.
Can Period Underwear be Used for Incontinence?
Yes, period underwear can be used for light to moderate incontinence. Because they are designed to absorb menstrual blood, they can also absorb urine leaks. If you’re experiencing moderate to severe bladder leaks, look for specialized incontinence underwear.
Does Knix Underwear Work for Incontinence?
Knix is one of the top leak proof underwear brands, and their products are designed primarily for periods and light bladder leaks. While they don’t offer a dedicated incontinence product (at the time of writing), their range of underwear includes higher absorbency options that may work for many postpartum moms. Plus, they have a bunch of cute designs and fun colors.
Where Can I Buy Incontinence Underwear?
It can be found online directly from the retailer, as well as Amazon, and some local retailers.
Final Thoughts
Urinary incontinence is common during pregnancy and postpartum, but it is often treatable. Spoiler alert, kegels usually aren’t the answer! With time and using programs like those found in our Strong Like a Mother app, you can heal and strengthen your pelvic floor, prolapse, or other postpartum symptoms.
In the meantime, there’s no shame in grabbing a pair of incontinence briefs to keep you dry and comfortable! If you’re experiencing moderate to severe leakage, please discuss it with a medical provider.