Incontinence guards for men – how often should you change them?

If you’re managing incontinence, choosing the right incontinence products designed for men can make all the difference in your comfort and confidence. But it’s just as important to make sure you’re using those products in the right way. TENA guards for men have a discreet, masculine design and offer great protection against leakage and odors.

And as for usage, here are some straightforward answers about how often to change pads, how to treat skin irritation, and how often you should change your pad at night.

Urinary incontinence is when you lose control over your bladder, leading to unexpected leaks.¹ It’s more common than you might think, and it can show up in different ways, like needing to go to the bathroom often or occasional dribbles.¹

There are a few reasons this can happen. Aging, prostate issues, carrying extra weight, or certain neurological conditions can all play a role.¹ Whatever the cause, it can be frustrating, but the right incontinence products, like absorbent pads, can help manage leaks and keep you feeling comfortable and confident.¹

Want to learn more about male incontinence? Here’s our complete guide to types of male incontinence.

Choosing the right male incontinence pads is key to managing your symptoms effectively. Whether you're looking for something discreet for everyday use or need something with extra absorbency for active moments, the right product can make all the difference.

Guards for Men

TENA male guards are designed to fit comfortably and discreetly, offering protection without being bulky. They’re specifically made to fit the contours of the male body, with a soft, cloth-like outer cover for extra comfort. Adhesive strips help keep the guard in place, so you don’t have to worry about adjusting throughout the day.

When choosing a guard, it’s important to pick the right absorbency based on how much leakage you’re experiencing. You’ll also want to consider the size and fit, especially around the groin area, to ensure comfort and security.

TENA offers a wide variety of male guards to suit different needs, lifestyles, and absorbency levels. Not sure which one to choose? Compare products to find the one that's right for you.

Shields for Men

Shields are similar to guards but typically have a slightly lower absorbency level. They’re great for lighter leakage, offering discreet protection for men who don’t need the extra coverage that guards provide.

Male Incontinence Underwear

For those who need more coverage, male incontinence underwear is an excellent option. Unlike guards or shields, these are designed like regular underwear, offering full coverage and extra absorbency. They’re ideal if you’re looking for something more substantial, especially if you’re managing moderate to heavy leakage.

If you're looking for male incontinence underwear, try these options.

Want some tips on how to wear your incontinence products? Read: How to Wear Male Incontinence Pads, Guards, and Shields: A Step-by-Step Guide

Generally speaking, aim for three to five changes per day. But this may vary, depending on factors like the condition of your skin, the amount of leakage you experience, and the kind of male incontinence product you’re using.

The main thing is to always change your incontinence product before it exceeds the absorption capacity. This helps stop accidental leaks and keeps your skin healthy, preventing bad odors, dermatitis, and infections.

Here’s a quick guide on how different products match up with your leakage level:

• For light leakage: Male Shields – Change every 4-6 hours
• For moderate leakage: Male Guards – Change every 3-4 hours
• For heavy leakage: Male Incontinence Underwear – Change every 2-3 hours or as needed

By choosing the right product for your leakage level, you’ll stay comfortable and confident all day long.

You might be wondering why you need to change your incontinence guard so often. A few things could influence how frequently you should change it, like how active you are, how much water you're drinking, and the type of guard you’re using.

If you’re active, you may need to change it more often to stay dry and comfortable. Staying well-hydrated can also mean more frequent changes since it affects how much you’re urinating. And of course, the type of guard you use; whether it’s for light, moderate, or heavy leakage, will determine how often a change is needed.

If you're out at work or in public, here are a few tips to discreetly change your guard:

• Keep a small, discreet bag or pouch for used pads.
• Find a private bathroom or aim for quieter times when the restroom isn't crowded.
• Always have a few extra guards on hand, so you’re never caught off guard.

These simple steps will help you stay comfortable and confident no matter where you are.

Why do some men change dry guards?

While all TENA absorbent products offer comfort and odor control, each person is different, and some men – especially those with an active lifestyle – may choose to change guards more often.

Even if the guard isn’t really wet, you might want to change it now and then to feel crisp, fresh and confident.

Do what feels best. Just remember, when changing guards, to keep the skin in your perineal area clean and protected with the right products.

How do you avoid skin irritation?

Extended exposure to moisture can cause skin breakdown, which is why it’s important to change your guard before it gets too full. If irritation does develop, first wash the skin, then dry it. When the area is clean and dry, apply a barrier cream to help protect skin from excess moisture that could cause irritation. If the irritation continues, consult your doctor.

What about changing incontinence guards or shields at night?

Nighttime is a different story. A good night’s sleep is incredibly important to every man’s health, and your incontinence product should help with that, not interrupt it.

For more comfortable sleep, the key is greater absorbency. For example, TENA Men Nighttime Incontinence Guard can help you stay dry, and in control through the night.

You’re not alone.

Male incontinence is extremely common and normal, and yet it’s still accompanied by stubborn social stigmas. At TENA we’re working hard to challenge these negative perceptions and improve acceptance. If you have incontinence but haven’t seen a doctor, remember asking for help is a sign of strength. Confiding in someone close to you can also be an enormous relief.

Finally, by using the right products, you’ll be prepared to handle daily challenges without worrying about leaks. And when it comes to how often to change incontinence guards, remember to A, always change them before they get too wet, and B, keep your genital area dry, clean, and protected – for healthier skin and better control.

Kegel Exercises Could Help You Manage Urinary Leakage

Kegel exercises are also a proven method for strengthening your pelvic floor muscles, which can help manage urinary leakage.² These exercises target the muscles that control your bladder, making them an effective way to improve bladder control over time.² By regularly practicing pelvic floor exercises, you can enhance muscle strength and endurance, helping reduce leakage and boost confidence.

For men looking to get started, pelvic floor exercises for men are easy to do and can be done anywhere, anytime.² Whether you're sitting at your desk or relaxing at home, these simple exercises can make a big difference. Try incorporating them into your routine, and with consistency, you’ll start noticing improvements in bladder control

How Can I Prevent Incontinence Pads from Leaking?

To prevent leaks, it's crucial to choose the right pad size and absorbency level for your needs. Make sure the pad is positioned properly to provide maximum coverage and protection. A good fit ensures that the pad stays in place and can handle any leaks throughout the day.

It’s also a good idea to avoid excessive caffeine and alcohol, as they can increase urine production and lead to more frequent trips to the bathroom. If you're looking for extra security, you might want to consider using incontinence underwear or briefs, which provide more coverage and are designed for heavier leaks.

For more tips on managing incontinence, check out these essential tips for overactive bladder care.