Incontinence pads absorb bladder or bowel leaks and keep your skin dry throughout the day. They sit discreetly inside your underwear and work by drawing moisture into an absorbent core. For many Australians, these pads offer the first step toward feeling confident and comfortable again.
At Ontex Healthcare, we offer a full range of Ontex Incontinence Products designed to support comfort, dignity, and confidence for people managing incontinence at home or in care.
Yet despite how common this condition is, many people feel anxious, embarrassed, or even ashamed to talk about it. The worst part is that many delay getting help for years. And sadly, waiting usually makes the problem harder to deal with.
In this article, we will cover how to choose the right incontinence pads, how they compare to other products, and where to find affordable, supportive options in Australia.
First, we’ll guide you on picking the right incontinence pads.
Incontinence Pads: Choosing the Right One for Your Needs
The right incontinence pad matches your absorbency needs, fits your body comfortably, and suits your daily routine. We understand that with so many options on the market, finding the best product can feel overwhelming at first.
So here are some practical tips to help you choose.
Types of Incontinence Pads and How They Work
Incontinence products come in several styles, and each one serves a different purpose.
Liners are thin and discreet, which makes them ideal for light leaks or the occasional dribble. Shaped pads, on the other hand, offer more coverage and sit snugly against your body, so they work well for moderate urinary incontinence.
Now, if you want something that feels more like regular underwear, pull-ups are a great option. They suit active people who need freedom of movement throughout the day. But for those with limited mobility or heavier leaks, all-in-one briefs wrap around the body and provide maximum absorbency.
Bed pads are another handy option to consider. They sit on top of your mattress and protect against overnight leaks. You can choose between disposable or reusable versions depending on what suits your lifestyle. We’ve noticed some men also prefer drainage bags or external catheters as alternatives to absorbent products.
How to Choose Based on Your Circumstances
Finding the right product really comes down to your personal situation and lifestyle. Below are the main factors we want you to think about to narrow down your options:
Intended Use
Daytime pads are usually slimmer and easier to wear under everyday clothing, which makes them a good choice for when you are active. For nighttime, we recommend longer pads with extra padding at the back to provide better coverage while you sleep.
You’ll also notice differences between products designed for urinary leaks and those made for bowel incontinence (some options better suit men or women).
Absorbency Levels
You can manage small leaks with light pads that feel barely noticeable. As leakage becomes more frequent or heavier, move up to a medium absorbency. In cases of severe incontinence, high-absorbency products will give the most reliable protection without constant changes.
Reusable or Disposable
Disposable pads are popular because they are simple to use and easy to dispose of, especially on busy days or when travelling. Reusable pads, on the flip side, can be more budget-friendly in the long run (although they do require regular washing and care).
Comfort, Fit, and Skin Protection
A well-fitting pad sits securely in place, and prevents leaks and reduces friction. And if you combine it with breathable, skin-friendly materials, it can also lower the risk of irritation and keep sensitive skin healthier throughout the day.
We highly recommend trying the free samples before committing to a full pack. It will save you money and help you find your perfect fit faster.
When to Consider Upgrading Products
Firstly, pay attention to how your current products perform over time. If you notice frequent leaks, skin rashes, or lingering odour, these are often signs that you need stronger absorbency or a different style altogether.
In fact, a study by the National Association for Continence (NAFC) found that up to 80% of people with incontinence wear the wrong products without realising it.
There’s also the challenge of balancing cost and comfort. For instance, higher absorbency products may cost you a bit more upfront, but they often reduce the number of changes you need throughout the day.
Also, as your circumstances change with age or health conditions, it is a good idea to revisit your product choices regularly. That way, you can make sure they still suit your needs.
Incontinence Products Australia: Support, Savings, and Where to Start
Australians can find incontinence aids through pharmacies, health retailers, and online stores that deliver directly to their door. Many suppliers also offer a full range of products alongside expert advice to help you choose the right fit.
Let’s look at some practical tips for finding quality products and taking advantage of available support.
Where to Buy Incontinence Aids in Australia
You have plenty of options when it comes to buying continence products in Australia. Our Ontex brands like iD, Lille, and Kylie are available for purchase through specialist distributors such as Independence Australia, Confidence Club, and IncontinenceProducts.com.au. These online retailers often carry a wider range of sizes and absorbency levels than what you would find on a standard pharmacy shelf.
If you prefer shopping from home, check your nearest health supply retailers and well-known pharmacy websites. Many deliver Australia-wide and offer incontinence products designed specifically for both men and women.
Pro tip: When comparing suppliers, look for ones that stock a full range of options and trusted brands. This makes it much easier to find everything you need in one place.
Take Advantage of Government Assistance
The Continence Aids Payment Scheme helps eligible Australians cover some of the cost of their continence products. For the 2025–26 financial year, the payment rate is $717.10, and this amount doesn’t count as taxable income.
You also need to be at least five years old and have permanent, severe incontinence caused by an eligible condition to qualify. If your incontinence is not related to a neurological condition like spinal injury or multiple sclerosis, you will also need a Pensioner Concession Card. This will help reduce your healthcare and living costs.
Then, a registered health professional will complete part of your application to confirm your eligibility. Once you are ready, you can apply online through your Medicare account on myGov or submit a paper form to Services Australia.
You Deserve Confidence, Comfort, and Support
So, how are you feeling about managing incontinence now? We hope this article gave you some practical starting points.
The good news is that there are options for every need, body type, and budget. With support like the Continence Aids Payment Scheme (CAPS) and free samples, you can feel more confident and enjoy life without worry.
Don’t hesitate to reach out to experts like the National Continence Helpline (1800 33 00 66) for advice. Explore your options, try a few products, and choose what makes you feel secure.
And when you’re ready, visit Ontex Healthcare to browse our full range of incontinence products and request your free samples today.
