Managing incontinence in the workplace can be an anxiety-inducing experience, especially when you’re newly diagnosed and still finding your feet.

But we’re here to share some practical tips that will hopefully lessen any anxiety or stress about having to manage incontinence at work. 

Remember, you’re not alone in your incontinence experience. Millions of others live with this condition daily and it’s possible to live comfortably and confidently.

Invest in high quality products

Having incontinence aids you can rely on to keep you dry and protected against leaks while at work (and beyond!) is priceless. 

We have European-made products to suit every level of incontinence, that are slimline and discreet without compromising on absorbency.

Dailee women's pads and men's guards

Our Dailee range of pads and guards is designed for light to moderate urinary leakage. There are different absorbency options, but they range up to 1000mL for women’s pads and 650mL for men’s guards.

Both the women’s and men’s ranges are anatomically designed to fit the body and feature a fast ultra-dry core to keep you feeling fresh between changes. They’re dermatologically tested to maintain breathability which in turn protects your skin.

Dailee pull-up pants

If you have more moderate urinary incontinence and/or some faecal incontinence, our pull-up pants will be your go-to. They’re slimline and leak-proof so you can rely on them to keep you dry and comfortable while at work.

They feature odour-locking technology that can keep odours at bay for up to 12 hours - which is a really beneficial feature to have when you’re between changes at work. These pull-on and wear like regular underwear too, so rest assured they’re discreet under clothing.

Dailee all-in-one slips

Our all-in-one slips or adult nappies are recommended if you have low mobility and/or no bladder or bowel control. Our slips provide the highest level of absorbency and protection - up to 3100mL to be exact.

Like our pull-ups, these too also have up to 12 hours of odour locking capabilities, as well as double leakage barriers, a wetness indicator, and secure velcro side tabs for adjustment and refastening.

Booster pads

If you’re looking for extra protection for your pull-up or slip, you can try our booster pads. You simply lay a pad inside your pull-up or slip for added absorbency. Please note, these are not designed to be used alone.

They feature odour-locking technology that can keep odours at bay for up to 12 hours - which is a really beneficial feature to have when you’re between changes at work. These pull-on and wear like regular underwear too, so rest assured they’re discreet under clothing.

Plan regular bathroom breaks

Try to schedule regular bathroom breaks throughout the workday, even if you don't feel an immediate need to go. This will help you manage your condition and prevent accidents.

You can communicate with your supervisor or HR department about your situation, so they can understand and accommodate your needs. More about having a conversation with your management is below.

Stay hydrated and limit caffeine

We know that morning and/or afternoon coffee can feel needed to fuel you through the day. But to ensure you don’t exacerbate your incontinence symptoms it’s best to limit your caffeine intake. Caffeine can irritate the bladder and bowel FYI! So, swap your coffee for water to ensure you stay hydrated and avoid irritating your bladder and bowel. 

If you can’t live without your daily cuppa, then simply switch to a decaffeinated alternative - while still maintaining your water intake!

Know where the nearest toilets are

This might sound like a pretty obvious one, but it's equally as important as the others. Be sure to familiarise yourself with the locations of toilets in your workplace.

If perhaps your job requires you to be on the road, you can the download the free National Public Toilet Map app. This will help you find toilets close to you when you're out and about.

 Knowing the nearest bathroom will allow you to quickly access it when needed, reducing the risk of accidents.

Pack an emergency kit

Prepare a discreet emergency kit that you can keep at your desk or in your bag. Include spare incontinence products, wet wipes, and a change of underwear and clothes, just in case of any accidents.

Having this kit readily available will provide peace of mind and make it easier to manage any unwanted leaks efficiently. 

Speaking to your workplace about incontinence

Deciding to speak to your boss, HR team and/or other colleagues about your incontinence is completely your choice. If you don’t feel comfortable sharing, then you by no means have to. 

There are pros and cons to speaking to your workplace about incontinence. These may vary for every individual depending on their type of work, workplace culture, and so on.

Pros

• Disclosing your condition can allow your employer to make reasonable accommodations to support you. For example, they provide more flexible bathroom breaks or adjust your work environment to help you manage incontinence effectively.

• Colleagues and supervisors who know about your condition may be more supportive and empathetic if they notice you need to take extra breaks or step out of meetings, for example.

• If your job involves operating heavy machinery or driving, disclosing your incontinence may be necessary to ensure safety protocols are in place.

Cons

• Incontinence can be a sensitive issue and you might prefer to keep it private to avoid any potential embarrassment or stigma in the workplace.

• There may be a concern that disclosing a health condition like incontinence could lead to unwanted attention or even discrimination in the workplace.

• While many employers are supportive, there is no guarantee that disclosing your condition will result in understanding or accommodations.

Remember, if you do face any discrimination, harassment or offensive behaviour, you can contact the Fair Work Ombudsman to discuss your options and next steps to resolution.