Adult Diaper Tips: How to Overcome 10 Common Issues (2024)

Wearing adult diapers can be a convenient, effective way to address incontinence. It can also raise some new challenges that may catch you off guard. Whether you’re living with temporary or lasting bowel or bladder incontinence, there are steps you can take to get past these issues for more confidence and comfort in your day-to-day life.

Adult Diaper Tips: How to Overcome 10 Common Issues (1)Unpacking what that can take, here’s a closer look at:

  • How to Get Help Getting Adult Diapers with Medicaid
  • The Next Step to Getting Free Adult Diapers with Medicaid

We invite you to bookmark this, share it on social media, and contact MyMedSupplies whenever it’s time for expert support getting adult diapers through Medicaid in WA, OR, or ID.

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MyMedSupplies is a premier medical supply provider with deep experience in Medicaid coverage for incontinence supplies. We’re ready to share more info whenever you need it.

10 Challenges of Wearing Adult Diapers & Helpful Tips to Resolve Them

You’re not alone if you’re struggling with certain aspects of wearing adult diapers. At least 33 million Americans wear adult diapers, and many of them deal with at least one of the concerns below.

If you’re one of them, you don’t have to gamble with any of the potential “complications” any more. To put these concerns behind you for good, check out the steps you can take for each, along with pro tips for next-level peace of mind.

1. Skin Irritation & Diaper Rash

Wearing adult diapers can irritate your skin, exposing it to moisture and friction for extended periods of time. For some, that can result in rashes, itching, and/or more serious infections.

Adult Diaper Tips: How to Overcome 10 Common Issues (2)What You Can Do

  • Change adult diapers frequently to keep your skin dry.
  • Use a barrier cream, like zinc oxide or petroleum jelly, to protect your skin.
  • Choose adult diapers made from breathable materials to minimize moisture buildup.

Pro Tip: For added protection, use hypoallergenic, fragrance-free wipes. Only apply cream or fresh diapers to skin that’s completely dry.

2. Odor Control

With both urinary and bowel incontinence, odor can be a significant concern, especially in social situations. At times, this issue can contribute to embarrassment and/or anxiety.

What You Can Do

  • Choose adult diapers with odor-locking technology.
  • Dispose of used adult diapers in odor-sealing bags.
  • Use odor-neutralizing sprays or powders specifically designed for incontinence products.

Pro Tip: Keep a “change kit” with you at all times to facilitate quick changes after leaks or releases.

3. Leaks & Inadequate Absorption

Embarrassing and inconvenient leaks can happen when:

  • Diapers don’t provide sufficient absorption.
  • Diapers aren’t appropriately sized, so they don’t fit properly.
  • Diapers aren’t supplemented with additional incontinence supplies at night.
  • Diapers aren’t used with booster pads and other incontinence supplies for those with severe incontinence.

What You Can Do

  • Use high-absorbency adult diapers designed for your level of incontinence.
  • Consider wearing an additional incontinence pad inside the diaper for extra protection.
  • Use underpads at night and on furniture for additional protection.
  • Wear the correct size adult diaper to prevent gaps where leakage can occur.
  • Be mindful of when you may need to size your adult diapers up or down.
  • Be aware that there are adult diapers for men and adult diapers for women, with gender-specific design differences.

Pro Tip: Experiment with different brands and types of adult diapers, as some may be better suited for overnight use, different degrees of incontinence, and your unique needs.

4. Discretion

Appearance and noise can be points of concern for anyone who prizes discretion and would rather not televise to the world that they’re wearing adult diapers. With that, there can be sensitivities about:

  • Bulging and unevenness
  • Crinkling sounds when moving

Like odor, leaks, and other concerns, the possibility of an “off” appearance and “odd” noises can be enough to deplete confidence, possibly making those who wear adult diapers more hesitant about being social or going out in public.

What You Can Do

  • Choose slim-fit or discreet adult diapers that are less bulky but still offer sufficient protection.
  • Wear looser clothing that can hide visible lines and bulges.
  • Opt for diapers made of quieter materials to reduce rustling noises.

Pro Tip: Layer clothing for extra layers of discretion. For instance, wearing a long shirt and a cardigan can add two softening and sound-dampening layers over bottomwear (like pants or skirts) to keep your diaper as discreet and private as possible.

5. Fungal Infections

Adult Diaper Tips: How to Overcome 10 Common Issues (3)Warm, moist conditions under a diaper can increase the risk of fungal infections and yeast infections.

What You Can Do

  • Keep the area dry with frequent changes and use absorbent products.
  • Apply antifungal powders or creams if you notice redness or itching.
  • Air out your skin by taking breaks from wearing diapers whenever possible.

Pro Tip: Work with your doctor if you develop any infections or skin issues. Some of these complications may require medications, ointments, or other treatments.

6. Changing Diapers “On the Go”

Whenever you’re out and about, accessing public restrooms for on-the-go diaper changes can be a major concern. That may be especially true if you need or plan on frequent changes to address moderate to severe incontinence or minimize the risk of odor issues or leaks, for example.

What You Can Do

  • Research the destinations you’re visiting and find out where the restrooms are before you go.
  • Carry a travel-sized changing kit with extra diapers, wipes, and creams.
  • Choose adult diapers with high absorbency and consider wearing booster pads to give you a little more leeway and time between changes.

Pro Tip: Use family or accessible restrooms when they’re available, so you have more space and privacy for changing.

7. Changing Diapers with Limited Mobility

For those with limited mobility, changing adult diapers can be a major challenge, and relying on help can be uncomfortable.

What You Can Do

  • Use easy-to-remove incontinence products, such as side-tab diapers or pull-ups.
  • Install mobility aids in your bathroom to make the changing process easier.
  • If your mobility is severely limited, consider working with a caregiver trained in personal care who understands your needs.

Pro Tip: Talk to your doctor about options for incontinence supplies and mobility aids when you’re getting your diaper prescription. Your health care provider may have some insights that can help you get more suitable products to support your needs.

8. Adult Diaper Costs

Adult Diaper Tips: How to Overcome 10 Common Issues (4)The cost of quality adult diapers can add up quickly, especially for individuals who require them long-term.

What You Can Do

  • Apply for Medicaid to get free adult diapers and other incontinence supplies.
  • Work with a Medicaid-approved provider, like MyMedSupplies, that helps you get adult diapers covered, so you don’t have to pay out of pocket.
  • If you do not qualify for Medicaid, consider bulk purchases, buying adult diapers at warehouse stores, and/or leveraging sales and coupons whenever possible.

Pro Tip: Work with MyMedSupplies for a trusted partner who can take the lead in helping you get diapers with Medicaid for free.

9. Social Stigma & Potential Embarrassment

The social stigma associated with wearing adult diapers can weigh on some people, serving as a source of anxiety, shame, or embarrassment.

What You Can Do

  • Open up to trusted friends or family members about your condition so they understand and can help support your needs.
  • Use discreet incontinence products that don’t rustle or cause bulges.
  • Consider joining a support group, where others share your concerns and challenges.

Pro Tip: Normalize the conversation about incontinence with your healthcare provider. Work on accepting the fact that incontinence is a common medical condition that’s no different than managing other health needs and that doesn’t reflect on who you are as a person.

10. Poor Diaper Fit

Ill-fitting adult diapers can be uncomfortable, leak-prone, and indiscrete, with pinching or bulging that irritates the skin.

What You Can Do

  • Measure yourself or consult a diaper size guide to find the right fit.
  • Choose diapers that are designed specifically for men or women, as the fit and absorption zones can vary.
  • If you’re between sizes, opt for the snugger fit to prevent leaks.

Pro Tip: Consider trying adjustable diapers with Velcro tabs that can be refastened, ensuring a better, more customized fit.

How to Get Help Getting Adult Diapers with Medicaid

MyMedSupplies simplifies the process of getting adult diapers and related incontinence products through Medicaid in Washington, Idaho, and Oregon. We offer discreet, free shipping and personalized support to help you manage your incontinence needs without stress.

As an easier way to navigate Medicaid coverage for diapers and incontinence supplies, working with MyMedSupplies can give you confidence that you’ll get the durable medical supplies you need, with minimal delays, ongoing support, and friendly professionals in your corner.

Adult Diaper Tips: How to Overcome 10 Common Issues (5)To get you started, we generally:

  • Confirm your eligibility: To qualify for Medicaid-covered incontinence products, you need a documented medical condition causing incontinence (such as urinary or fecal incontinence).
  • Collect specific medical documentation: A prescription and medical documentation from your healthcare provider are required to verify that the supplies are medically necessary.
  • Oversee the Medicaid submission: We assist with the paperwork and submission to Medicaid, ensuring that you receive the correct products.

Once you’re approved for free diapers through Medicaid, we’ll ship your adult diapers, underpads, and/or other incontinence supplies right to your door in anonymous packaging for the ultimate privacy.

The Next Step to Getting Free Adult Diapers with Medicaid

When you’re ready for free adult diapers through Medicaid in Washington, Oregon, or Idaho, it’s time to contact MyMedSupplies.

Contact Us

Whether you’re living with light, temporary leakage or more severe incontinence, Medicaid in Washington, Oregon, and Idaho can cover the costs of adult diapers and other incontinence products month after month.

At MyMedSupplies, we have 40+ years’ experience in the medical supply and Medicaid space, and we’re accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Health Care, Inc. (ACHC) to provide Durable Medical Equipment, Respiratory Services, and Medical Supplies. We also prioritize customer care, going above and beyond to provide extraordinary service and reliable access to the best adult diapers and incontinence supplies.

That’s why MyMedSupplies is among the most trusted medical supply stores in Washington, Oregon, Idaho, and throughout the Northwest U.S.

For expert assistance getting free incontinence supplies through Medicaid, simply talk to a professional coordinator at MyMedSupplies now. We are standing by, ready to help now.

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Adult Diaper Tips: How to Overcome 10 Common Issues (2024)
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