Female urinary incontinence is a common but often misunderstood condition. It can have an enormous impact on the daily lives of women who experience it and cause them to feel embarrassed or isolated. Fortunately, female urinals are a discreet solution that can help manage these issues and bring independence back into the lives of those who use them.
In this guide, we will explain different types of female urinals, their uses and benefits, and provide helpful tips on how to select the right product for you.
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What Are Female Urinals?
Female urinals are designed to help women with urinary incontinence manage their condition safely and discreetly. They come in various types and styles and are designed to suit different needs. Generally, female urinals can be divided into two categories: hand-held devices and body-supporting devices.
Hand-Held Devices
Hand-held devices rest between the thighs, such as dishes, jugs, bottles, two-piece small mouldings with drainage attached and one-piece small mouldings with a bag. Dishes are shallow, compact receptacles with a cover that surrounds a roughly central opening and are inserted under the user, in bed or in a chair, so that the start of the urinal opening is just under the perineal area. They have a flat base and can be used while sitting or lying down. Bottles are narrower than dishes and have a hollow chamber with an opening shaped to fit the female anatomy. They can be used while standing, sitting, or lying down.
Small mouldings with drainage are designed to sit compactly between the thighs. They have a tube that connects to a detachable semi-disposable plastic bag, combining large capacity with compactness. Some are cup-shaped and require the user to stand or sit well forward, while others look like miniature dishes and have a flat base with a roughly central opening. The slimmest of these dish devices are useful for seated users who have thigh spasms or contractures that limit knee separation ability.
Jugs, on the other hand, are deep and open receptacles designed for use while standing. They require the user to take a wider stance and can be used with or without assistance.
Body-Supporting Devices
Body-supporting devices are specifically designed to fit under, rather than between, the thighs. These products include flat and shallow urinals that can be used on a chair or in bed, as well as paediatric bedpans that double as female urinals for use in bed. They are ideal for those who need additional support and stability while urinating.
How to Choose the Right Female Urinal
Choosing the right female urinal depends on several factors, such as the user’s symptoms, circumstances, and environment. Here are some tips to help you select the best option:
Take into consideration the user’s level of mobility and dexterity. For those with limited mobility and hand coordination, hand-held devices may be more challenging to use.
Consider the user’s posture while using the urinal. Some products require a wider stance, which can be difficult for those who have balance issues or physical limitations.
Evaluate the capacity of the product. If a user struggles with emptying their urinal frequently, it is essential to choose a product with a larger capacity or one that can be drained easily.
Think about the user’s environment. If they are at home or away from home, some products may be more practical than others.
Benefits of Using Female Urinals
Female urinals provide numerous benefits for those who experience urinary incontinence. These include:
Increased independence and freedom to manage incontinence discreetly, without the help of a caregiver.
Reduced risk of accidents or spills, which can cause discomfort and embarrassment.
Improved hygiene as many female urinals have features that lock urine away or absorb any liquid.
The Urban Woman Magazine Editorial Team is made up of seasoned writers and editors who have a keen eye for detail and a passion for all things urban. We strive to create fresh, original content that appeals to the modern woman. Our mission is to provide a platform for women to share their stories, experiences and opinions on various issues affecting their lives.
