Dryness Aids: Most dryness aids contain a chemical developed by N.A.S.A. for astronauts because they must wear protection during space excursions. The chemical inside protective pads and diapers turns into a solid substance when it gets wet, thereby drawing wetness away from the body. Dryness aids for incontinence contain enough of the chemical to handle big spills. Customers may choose from light absorbency to heavy or overnight strengths. John Glenn, the accomplished astronaut, never suffered any loss of dignity from wearing bladder protection during space travel, so why should anyone else?

Some incontinence pads and adult diapers are made specifically in male and female versions. Look for them in the catalogs listed below. No one but you knows when you're wearing protection, and it is far better than suffering the consequences, unless you choose another way to effectively deal with urine loss. Note: one drawback of dryness aids is that some people get irritated skin from the chemical inside; in that case, place a piece of cotton cloth
between your body and the pad or diaper.

A Word on Bowel Incontinence: Bowel incontinence is easier to correct because it can be done much less frequently and because it involves solid waste, rather than liquid. Talk to your urologist and explore home health care remedies, such as digital stimulation devices. Digital stimulation is a method of evacuating the bowels, typically at the beginning of the day, removing the problem before it starts.

Some people manage their bowels with a fiber supplement, mild suppositories, or stool softeners. There are plenty of options; one will be right for you.

It's also advisable to watch your diet to be sure you get plenty of water and fiber, but use discretion—if you're about to take the train to work, don't have a large meal or large drink before leaving. Wait until you arrive and avoid coffee especially.