When discussing and shopping for incontinence products, you will hear a variety of terms being used. In hospitals and professional healthcare settings, the preferred term for adult diapers is “incontinence briefs” or sometimes “absorbent adult briefs.” These terms provide a respectful and clinical description of the products that help individuals manage bladder control or bowel incontinence. Unlike the term “diaper,” which is often associated with baby diapers, using “incontinence briefs” helps avoid any potentially demeaning connotations.
Understanding the correct terminology is essential not only for clear communication among medical staff but also for maintaining the dignity of patients experiencing any form of adult incontinence.
Types of Incontinence Briefs
While “incontinence briefs” is a widely accepted term, several other names are used depending on the product style and brand.
For example, Tranquility categorizes its disposable pull-on underwear as “protective underwear,” and many wearers casually refer to them as “pull-ons” or “adult pull-ups” since they can be pulled on like regular underwear.
Tranquility labels its disposable briefs, which feature stick-on or hook-and-loop fasteners, as “tape-tab briefs.”
Despite these more technical names, it’s common for people to still call them adult diapers in everyday conversation. Other variations you might hear include “absorbent underwear,” “disposable underwear” and, in the UK, “adult nappies.”
To explore the pros and cons of different styles of adult absorbent garments, check out this helpful guide: The 6 Most Popular Types of Adult Diapers.
Which Incontinence Brief is Right for You?
Choosing the right adult incontinence product depends on the type and severity of incontinence the user experiences, as well as other factors like lifestyle, mobility and personal preference. If you have an active lifestyle, you may choose adult diapers that can be worn discreetly while still providing protection. For someone with limited mobility, you may prioritize ease of use and extra absorbency.
Different brands offer varying absorbency levels and features like odor control, breathable materials and easy-to-use fasteners to help wearers continue their daily activities comfortably.
Learn more about what to look for when selecting a product in our article, Top Four Things to Look for When Purchasing Adult Diapers.
Key Considerations for Incontinence Management
Effective incontinence protection goes beyond simply choosing a product. Here are some critical factors to keep in mind:
Proper Fit and Sizing:
A secure fit is essential for any incontinence product. You’ll need to take precise measurements of the waist and hips to choose the appropriate size. Using adult diapers that do not fit properly can result in leaks, discomfort and skin irritation. Brands often have specific sizing charts, so make sure to refer to them while shopping for the right product. Testing out a few brands may also help you find the most comfortable fit. Another way to streamline this process and determine quickly which Tranquility product would be the best fit for your needs is to check out our Product Finder quiz.
Frequent Changes:
It is important to change incontinence products regularly, whether you are using pull-ups, briefs, or even incontinence pads. This practice helps to prevent irritation and reduces the risk of skin breakdown. We recommend establishing a schedule for changing out your products, as waiting too long can compromise your comfort and health.
Skin Care and Hygiene:
Maintaining clean, dry skin is essential to reduce the risk of infection and discomfort caused by prolonged moisture exposure. Make sure to use a gentle cleanser and allow the skin to dry fully in between usage. If needed, you can use a barrier cream for extra protection. Tranquility also offers a variety of extra care items such as Tranquility Cleansing Wipes and Tranquility ThinLiner Moisture Management Sheets which can assist in keeping skin dry and clean.
Where to Buy:
Adult incontinence products are widely available, making it easy to find what you need. They can be purchased at pharmacies, medical supply stores and through trusted online retailers. Some retailers offer subscriptions for regular deliveries, which can provide convenience and cost savings. For a list of retailers we trust to supply Tranquility at a fair price, check our Where to Buy page.
Professional Consultation:
Finally, it’s important to remember that managing incontinence is a healthcare issue. Consulting a healthcare professional is key to identifying the underlying cause — whether it’s overactive bladder, urinary incontinence, fecal incontinence or another condition — and finding the best approach to care.
Whether you’re exploring products for yourself or a loved one, understanding the medical terminology can make all the difference in finding the right products and maintaining comfort, dignity and quality of life.
