Is TENA good for bowel incontinence? An Expert's Look at Protection and Performance

According to the National Association For Continence, protective briefs and tab-style diapers are the most effective products for containing fecal incontinence, which includes both solid and liquid stool. So, is TENA good for bowel incontinence? Yes, TENA offers specific product lines, such as the ProSkin briefs and certain pads, that are designed to manage bowel incontinence effectively by combining advanced containment features with superior absorbency.

Quick Summary

TENA provides effective solutions for bowel incontinence through specialized products like adult briefs and high-absorbency pads, featuring superior leakage protection, odor control, and skin-caring technology. Selection depends on the individual's specific needs, mobility, and the severity of incontinence. Proper product fit is crucial for both containment and skin health.

Key Points

• TENA offers effective products for bowel incontinence: Yes, but only specific products in their lineup, particularly adult briefs and some higher-absorbency pads, are designed for the containment needs of fecal incontinence.

• Containment is key for bowel incontinence: Unlike simple bladder leakage, managing solid or liquid stool requires products with robust leak guards and a secure fit, which TENA briefs provide through adjustable tabs and contoured elastics.

• Skin health is a critical consideration: TENA's ProSkin products feature breathable materials and technology to wick moisture away, but prompt product changes are still essential to prevent skin irritation and dermatitis caused by prolonged exposure to fecal matter.

• Product choice depends on mobility: Active individuals may prefer TENA's protective underwear for discretion, while those with limited mobility or caregivers often find the adjustable, tab-style briefs easier and more secure.

• Proper fit prevents leaks: A snug fit is crucial for all incontinence products. TENA provides sizing guides, and users should measure their waist and hips, opting for the correct size over a larger, bulkier one.

TENA is a widely recognized brand for incontinence products, but many users wonder if its offerings are suitable for managing the specific challenges of bowel incontinence, also known as fecal incontinence. The good news is that TENA does offer products designed for this purpose, providing features tailored to handle the containment, odor control, and skin health concerns associated with fecal leakage. However, finding the right TENA product requires a more careful approach than selecting a standard pad for bladder leakage. The key is to match the product's features to the individual's specific needs, mobility, and lifestyle.

Understanding the Challenges of Bowel Incontinence

Managing bowel incontinence requires products with specialized features that differ from those needed for urinary incontinence. Feces contains bacteria and enzymes that can quickly break down skin, leading to rashes and dermatitis if not managed properly. Therefore, effective products must excel in three main areas: containment, absorption, and skin protection.

• Containment: Fecal matter, especially diarrhea, requires robust leak guards and a secure fit to prevent escape. Standard pads or pull-on underwear designed primarily for urine may not provide adequate protection against solids or watery stool.
• Absorption: While urinary pads focus on wicking away liquid, products for bowel incontinence need to manage both liquid and solid waste. Superabsorbent polymers (SAPs) play a critical role in locking away moisture to keep the skin dry, but the overall product structure is key for containing solids.
• Skin Protection: Prolonged exposure to fecal matter is harmful to the skin. Products must be breathable and gentle, and a prompt change is essential to minimize the risk of skin irritation. TENA's ProSkin line incorporates technology designed to promote healthy skin by quickly wicking moisture away.

TENA Products Recommended for Bowel Incontinence

TENA offers several product types that are suitable for managing different levels and types of bowel incontinence. The best choice will depend on the user's mobility, the severity of leakage, and personal preference.

Incontinence Briefs (Adult Diapers)

For moderate to heavy bowel incontinence, particularly for individuals with limited mobility or those who are bed-bound, TENA's adult briefs (also called slips or tab-style diapers) are often the most secure option.

• Secure Fit: Briefs with refastenable hook tabs allow for a highly customizable and snug fit, which is crucial for preventing leaks and containing solids.
• Comprehensive Protection: TENA's briefs, such as the ProSkin Super Briefs and Classic Plus Briefs, are designed for moderate to heavy bladder and/or bowel incontinence. They feature high-absorbency zones and curved leg elastics to ensure superior containment.
• Caregiver Friendly: The tab-style design makes changes easier for caregivers, especially for those who are immobile.

Protective Underwear (Pull-Ons)

For more active individuals with moderate to heavy bowel and bladder incontinence, protective underwear offers a balance of discretion and containment.

• Discreet Design: Products like the TENA ProSkin Protective Underwear and ProSkin Pants are designed to look and feel more like regular underwear, promoting dignity and confidence.
• Full Coverage: These pull-on products still offer full-rise and wider back panels for enhanced containment compared to standard pads.
• Bowel and Bladder: Specific pull-up styles, like the TENA ProSkin Flex Belted Undergarments, are recommended for moderate to heavy bladder and bowel control needs.

High-Absorbency Pads

For managing mild to moderate bowel incontinence, particularly in combination with urinary leaks, some TENA pads are suitable when worn with secure-fitting underwear.

• TENA ProSkin Day Plus Pads: These are specifically designed for heavy urine and/or mild fecal incontinence and feature a fast-absorbing core.
• Booster Pads: For dual incontinence, some users opt for booster pads placed within their primary product. While this can increase capacity, the primary brief or underwear is still necessary for containment, especially with solids.

Comparison of TENA Products for Bowel Incontinence

Feature	TENA Briefs (e.g., ProSkin Super Briefs)	TENA Protective Underwear (e.g., ProSkin Pants)	TENA High-Absorbency Pads (e.g., Day Plus)
Primary Use	Heavy bowel and/or urinary incontinence for users with limited mobility.	Moderate to heavy bowel and/or urinary incontinence for active users.	Mild to moderate bowel incontinence when paired with secure underwear.
Containment	Excellent. Customizable, snug fit with leg gathers and refastenable tabs ensures maximum containment for solids and liquids.	Good. Full-rise waist and leg elastics provide reliable protection but may be less secure than a tab-style brief for heavy incidents.	Limited. Designed for mild incidents and require supportive underwear for optimal containment of fecal matter.
Discretion	Least discreet due to bulkier, tab-style design. Ideal for home use or when discretion is not the primary concern.	Moderate. Resembles regular underwear, making it a more discreet option for those who are active and mobile.	Most discreet option, particularly for managing mild symptoms, when worn with close-fitting pants.
Ease of Use	Easier for caregivers to change, especially for immobile individuals, by adjusting side tabs.	Easy pull-on style for independent users. Tear-away sides allow for quick removal.	Easy to change and replace. Best for users with consistent access to a restroom.

How to Choose the Right TENA Product

1. Assess the severity and frequency of bowel incontinence. For heavy or frequent episodes, particularly with diarrhea, briefs with tabs are the most reliable option for containment. For milder, occasional leakage, a high-absorbency pad or protective underwear may suffice.
2. Consider the user's mobility. An active, independent person will likely prefer the discretion and convenience of pull-on underwear. For those who are bedridden or require assistance, briefs with tabs are easier for caregivers to manage.
3. Prioritize skin health. Bowel incontinence poses a significant risk for skin irritation. Look for TENA's ProSkin products, which feature breathable materials and the InstaDri Skin-Caring System™ to promote skin health. Always ensure products are changed promptly after a bowel movement.
4. Ensure a proper fit. A product that is too large or too small can lead to leaks and discomfort. TENA provides sizing guides, and it's best to measure the user's waist and hips for an accurate fit. For tab-style briefs, practice the application to ensure a snug fit in the groin and around the legs.

Conclusion

So, is TENA good for bowel incontinence? Yes, TENA offers a range of effective products specifically designed to manage bowel incontinence, especially its adult briefs and certain high-absorbency pads. However, success depends on selecting the right product for the individual's needs. For maximum protection and easier caregiver changes, TENA's tab-style briefs are the most robust solution. For active individuals with moderate needs, their protective underwear provides reliable and discreet protection. For managing mild leakage, high-absorbency pads can be an option. Crucially, combining the right product with diligent hygiene, including the prompt changing of soiled products, is the most effective strategy for ensuring both confidence and skin health.

Sources

1. Managing Bowel Incontinence with Adult Absorbent Products - National Association For Continence (nafc.org)
2. The key to managing and preventing bowel incontinence - TENA (tena.us)
3. How to Choose the Best Bowel Incontinence Products and Diapers - Tranquility Products (tranquilityproducts.com)
4. Incontinence Briefs - TENA US Store (shop.tena.us)
5. TENA® Adult Diapers and Other Incontinence Products for Everyone - DiaperFetch (diaperfetch.com)
6. TENA Complete +Care Ultra™ Briefs with CurvDefence - National Incontinence (nationalincontinence.com)

Frequently Asked Questions

Which TENA product is best for heavy bowel incontinence?

For heavy bowel incontinence, TENA's adult briefs, such as the ProSkin Super Briefs, are the most effective. Their tab-style design allows for a secure, customizable fit, providing maximum containment for both solids and liquids.

Can TENA pull-ups be used for bowel incontinence?

Yes, TENA's protective pull-on underwear, like the TENA ProSkin Underwear, can be used for moderate bowel and bladder incontinence. While they offer good protection and discretion for active individuals, briefs with tabs are generally more secure for heavier or watery fecal leakage.

Do I need a different product for bowel incontinence than for urinary incontinence?

Yes, products specifically designed for bowel incontinence, like TENA's tab-style briefs, offer enhanced containment features, such as taller leg cuffs, to manage solid and liquid fecal matter more effectively than standard pads or underwear designed only for urine.

How do TENA products help with odor control for bowel incontinence?

TENA products designed for moderate to heavy incontinence incorporate odor-neutralizing technology that locks away liquid to help reduce odor, promoting greater confidence and discretion.

What TENA features prevent skin irritation from bowel incontinence?

TENA products for heavier incontinence often feature a breathable design and an InstaDri Skin-Caring System™ with superabsorbent polymers to wick away moisture and maintain surface dryness. However, frequent changing and proper hygiene are also critical for preventing skin irritation.

Are TENA pads suitable for bowel incontinence?

TENA pads are generally not recommended for moderate to heavy bowel incontinence. However, certain high-absorbency pads, such as the ProSkin Day Plus pads, are designed for mild fecal leakage when worn with a close-fitting garment for containment.

How can I ensure the best fit for a TENA product for bowel incontinence?

To ensure the best fit, accurately measure the waist and hips to select the correct size, as a poor fit can lead to leaks. TENA's tab-style briefs can be adjusted for a snug fit in the groin and leg openings, which is essential for proper containment.