Continence Pads vs Continence Pants: What's the Difference?

Introduction: Which One Is Right for You?

You need continence products, but should you use pads or pants? What's actually different—besides the obvious?

Maybe you've tried one and it didn't work. Or you're not sure which is best for your situation.

Continence Pads: What They Are

Continence pads are absorbent liners worn inside your regular underwear, held in place by adhesive strips.

Best for:

Light to moderate incontinence

Active individuals who want discretion

Daytime use

People who prefer wearing their own underwear

Pros:

✓ Discreet and slim

✓ Comfortable for active movement

✓ Cost-effective for light leaks

✓ Easy to carry spares

Cons:

✗ Can shift during activity

✗ Limited absorbency compared to pants

✗ Requires functional underwear

✗ May not suit heavy nighttime leaks

Continence Pants: What They Are

Continence pants (also called pull-ups or protective underwear) are worn like regular underwear with built-in absorbent material.

Best for:

• Moderate to heavy incontinence

• Overnight protection

• People with mobility issues

• When carer assistance is needed

• Extra security during outings

Pros:

✓ Higher absorbency options

✓ More secure—won't shift

✓ All-in-one convenience

✓ Better for nighttime use

✓ Tear-away sides for easy removal

Cons:

✗ More visible under tight clothing

✗ Higher cost per unit

✗ Can feel bulkier

✗ Less eco-friendly (more material)

Side-by-Side Comparison

Feature	Pads	Pants
Absorbency	Light-Moderate	Moderate-Extra Heavy
Discretion	Very discreet	Slightly bulkier
Security	Good (can shift)	Excellent (stays put)
Cost	Lower per unit	Higher per unit
Ease of change	Quick & simple	Requires removing clothes
Overnight use	Light only	Excellent
For carers	Requires positioning	Easier to manage

How to Decide: Ask Yourself These Questions

1. How severe are my leaks?

Light/occasional → Pads | Moderate/heavy → Pants

2. When do I need protection?

Daytime only → Pads | Nighttime/24-hour → Pants

3. How active am I?

Very active → Either (depends on absorbency) | Limited mobility → Pants

4. Do I need carer assistance?

No → Pads | Yes → Pants (with tear-away sides)

5. What's my priority?

Discretion → Pads | Maximum protection → Pants

Can You Use Both?

Absolutely! Many people use:

Pads during the day for comfort and discretion

Pants at night for extra security and absorbency

Your needs may also change over time—what works now may need adjustment later.

Real Example

Margaret, 68, Adelaide: "I use pads during the day when I'm out shopping or visiting friends—they're comfortable and no one knows. At night, I switch to pants because they hold more and I sleep better knowing there won't be leaks."

How This Fits Into the Bigger Picture

Now you understand the difference between pads and pants. Next, learn about product lifespan and storage: How Long Do Continence Products Last? Storage & Shelf Life Explained.

Quick FAQs

Are continence pads the same as period pads?

No—period pads are designed for menstrual blood, not urine. They'll leak and smell.

Can men use continence pads?

Yes, but men's pads are shaped differently for better positioning and absorption.

Do pants feel like adult diapers?

Modern continence pants are slim and comfortable—not like old-style diapers.

Which is more environmentally friendly?

Pads use less material, but both have disposable and washable options.

How do I know if I need to upgrade from pads to pants?

If you're experiencing frequent leaks, changing pads more than every 3-4 hours, or feeling anxious about protection—it's time to try pants.

Conclusion: Choose What Works for Your Life

There's no "better" option—only what's better for you. Pads offer discretion and flexibility; pants provide security and higher absorbency. Many people use both depending on the situation.

📅 Not sure which to try? Book a Continence Product Assessment with McQuel Healthcare for personalised recommendations.