Incontinence and Urology Supplies — What’s the Difference?

Tag: incontinence, urology

Published: December 16, 2025

Last Updated: January 13, 2026

Summary

Learn the key differences between incontinence supplies (for leaks) and urology supplies (for urinary retention) to ensure you choose the right product and understand insurance coverage.

At first glance, incontinence and urological supplies might appear to be quite similar; They both treat urinary conditions and help manage bladder control. But that’s where the similarities end.

There’s actually a big difference between incontinence and urological supplies and understanding the difference is important to successful urinary care and good health.

Incontinence and urological supplies are actually two separate classifications of products. This is because each product serves different purposes. Absorbent Incontinence products, such as bladder control pads and briefs, are made for people who leak urine. Urological supplies, like straight catheters, are for people who have trouble urinating on their own.

Because they are classified differently, insurance coverage may vary on which products are covered as a benefit. For example, some Medicaid plans cover incontinence supplies, while Medicare does not.

Incontinence supplies are products that help manage the involuntary and unexpected leakage of urine. They usually come in the form of soft, absorbent pads or briefs that are worn underneath clothing. The interior of the products are filled with a special polymer that absorbs liquid and locks it away, which helps to keep skin and clothing dry.

Common incontinence supplies include products such as Bladder Control Pads, Male Guards, Protective Underwear, and Adult Briefs (Adult Diapers). Each type of incontinence product is made to handle a different level of leakage.

Urological supplies are products designed for people who have urinary retention and need help removing urine from the body. This could be caused by many things, such as a blockage in the urethra, or an issue with the nervous system that won’t allow the bladder muscles to relax. The supplies themselves consist of smooth, thin tubes (called catheters) that are inserted into the bladder through the urethra, allowing trapped urine to leave the body. Urine travels through the tube and often collects in a drainage bag

Common urological supplies include products such as catheters, drainage bags, and insertion trays. There are many different types of catheters, each one made to accommodate a different medical need.

Condom catheters are unique among urology supplies, in that they do not manage urinary retention. Instead, they manage incontinence. They also are not inserted into the body through the urethra but are used outside of the body.

There are three basic parts to a condom catheter: the external condom, the tubing, and the drainage bag. The external condom goes over the penis and attaches to the tubing, which is then attached to the leg bag. When leakage occurs, it travels down the tubing and is collected in the drainage bag.

To find out what product is right for your needs, talk with a doctor and get a diagnosis. Your doctor can help you determine what’s causing your leakage and put together a plan to treat it.

Once you’ve spoken to a doctor, sign up online or speak to us about getting supplies. We’ll find you the perfect product for your needs. Your insurance could even cover the cost.

Living with a chronic condition that requires medical supplies?

Let us help you get the products you need — delivered discreetly to your door.

Many people manage ongoing health conditions, and the right medical supplies can make all the difference. The team at HCD works with you, your doctor, and your insurance plan to support a wide range of needs, including urological, ostomy, diabetes, and wound care. We’ll help ensure you get the supplies you need to manage your condition with confidence.

Call 866-938-3906 to see if you qualify or reach out through our Contact Us form by selecting “An individual looking to see if I or a loved one qualifies for medical supplies.”