Can Period Pants Be Used for Incontinence?

16 January 2025 | Admin

This is SUCH a good question and something that comes up in our Trustpilot reviews and social media comments ALL the time.

But yes, most period pants can be used for incontinence, however incontinence specific pants or heavy flow period pants will usually perform better.

Here's a review from one customer who uses our period shorts for urine leakage:

'Black boxer shorts for either periods or bladder trouble: soft, silky fabric, very absorbent, extremely comfortable to wear, thoroughly recommended. The padding runs right round to the back waistband, so great for overnight wearing.' Trustpilot Review

Period pants are a game-changer for menstrual care. They’re comfy, reusable, and super absorbent, designed to soak up period blood and keep you feeling fresh all day. They come in different styles and absorbency levels, so there’s something for everyone.

But can period pants help with bladder leaks too? The answer is yes! Period pants can be used for incontinence, especially for light to moderate leaks. For the best results, go for heavy-flow period pants as they’re built to handle more liquid.

What Exactly Is Incontinence?

Incontinence means leaking urine when you don’t mean to.

It’s more common than you might think and there are several different types of urinary incontinence. Some people might leak a little when they laugh or sneeze (stress incontinence), while others might suddenly need the loo and not make it in time (urge incontinence).

Overflow incontinence is a type of urinary incontinence that occurs when you can't empty your bladder completely, causing urine to leak or dribble. Sometimes, it’s a mix of several types of incontinence.

Anyone can experience incontinence, but it’s more common for women, especially after having kids or during menopause when hormone levels change. However physical activity such as squats and running can also put pressure on the bladder and cause little leaks.

If you’re dealing with it, don’t worry—help is out there. You can find more information on websites like the NHS or Mayo Clinic. Alternatively, we love 'Secret Whispers' whose website has a wealth of information around incontinence rehabilitation.

"Sporty Teenage Period Pants work as Incontinence Pants too! I bought a set of the 'Sporty Teenage Period Pants' to use as incontinence pants. With a full front and back absorbent panel they are perfect even for this 53yr old lady with a few leaky problems! I found the NHS B&B pants so awful and unsexy that I couldn't bring myself to wear them so looked for other options. I am really chuffed to have found these on Cheeky Wipes. Thank you so much for this excellent product and at a very reasonable price, along with your excellent and responsive customer service 🙏😊" Trustpilot Review

Can You Use Period Pads for Incontinence?

You can use period pads for light bladder leaks, but they’re not the best option. Period pads are designed for menstrual blood, which is thicker and slower-moving than urine. They may also not be equipped to deal with the amount of urine. Since urine comes out faster and in larger amounts, period pads might not absorb it as well.

For better results, try Cheeky’s incontinence pads. These are made specifically for urine leaks, so they’re more effective and just as comfortable and eco-friendly as period products.

"The perfect product for me and the environment I have been using the incontinence products for years now. They work at least as well as any disposable products, probably better. They are so easy to wash in the machine and I feel so much better about having to wear them as there is no waste." Trustpilot Review

How to Stop Bladder Incontinence

If you want to reduce or even stop bladder leaks, here are some tips to try, depending on your type of incontinence:

Pelvic Floor Exercises: These exercises (like Kegels) strengthen the muscles that support your bladder and can help you stay in control. Use kegel weights to speed up results
Bladder Training: Slowly increase the time between loo trips to teach your bladder to hold more urine.
Watch Your Diet: Cut back on caffeine, alcohol, and spicy foods, which can irritate your bladder. Stay hydrated to avoid concentrated urine, which can also cause irritation.
Ask for Help: If incontinence is an issue for you, talk to a healthcare provider. They can suggest treatments like therapy, medication, or other options.

'I wasn't sure what to expect of the reusable incontinence pads from the small photos on the website, however when the products arrived I was pleasantly surprised to see how well-designed they were and so gentle on the skin. They quickly became part of my daily routine. The swift delivery and discreet packaging added to the positive experience too.' Trustpilot Review

Conclusion

Period pants can be a great option for managing light to moderate bladder leaks. They’re comfy, reusable, and eco-friendly. But for heavier leaks, incontinence-specific products like Cheeky’s pads and pants are a better bet.

Check out more helpful posts on our blog:

We’d love to hear from you. Feel free to contact us if you have any questions at all, nothing is TMI! And of course you can share your thoughts or ask questions in the comments.

About the Author: Helen Rankin founded Cheeky Wipes, the original reusable wipes kit back in 2008 after disposable wipes caused her eczema to flare up. 4 kids later, she went on to develop their range of 'Simple Reusables' to include period pants, reusable period kits and reusable sanitary pads. Both she and the rest of the leadership team are now navigating menopause, with all the joys it brings!

The Cheeky customer services team pride themselves on providing honest, friendly advice and just LOVE to chat pee, poo and periods all day long, helping people make the switch to reusables! The Company was recognised for their hard work in developing environmentally friendly products with the Queens Award in Enterprise for Sustainable Development in 2021.