It's important for us to share issues with our readers about a number of health issues or situations that can take place in our bodies. A few weeks ago, we attended an event presented by Always Discreet Boutique where they shared innovations that they created with a new underwear that assists those that battle Adult Incontinence. To find out more about what it is, to clear up misconceptions about it and to more we chatted with Selin Waltz, Always Discreet NA Franchise R&D to find out more about this.
ATHLEISURE MAG: What is Adult Incontinence and why does it happen?
SELIN WALTZ: On the most basic level, incontinence is defined as the involuntary loss of urine; however, there are several different kinds of incontinence that can be caused by anything from pregnancy to menopause and even strenuous physical activity. The three types are urge, stress and mixed incontinence.
Urge incontinence occurs when you have a strong need to urinate but cannot reach the toilet in time, while stress incontinence is when you experience a leak while coughing, sneezing or laughing; this is very common in younger women that have children and among athletes and active women. Mixed incontinence is a combination of both symptoms. Bladder leaks are very common, in fact 1 in 3 women experience them. That is why it is so important to get the word out and let women know they are not alone and there are solutions out there for them!
AM: What are the innovations that are involved in Always Discreet Boutique that are different than what was currently in the marketplace for those who have need for this product?
SW: Always Discreet Boutique is bladder leak underwear that looks flirty and fashionable, with stylist attention paid to every detail, including its beautiful and sleek packaging. Made with silky-soft fabric and curve-hugging contours that come in a rosé color with a variety of delicate lace prints, the design is inspired by fashion industry and pantone trends. The 3 designs in each pack are a simple bow for everyday elegance and 2 different flowery patterns that go from the front to the back on one side. Worked on by lingerie experts and fashion designers, Always Discreet Boutique is panty drawer-worthy underwear that can be paired with a favorite bra with pride. The Always Discreet brand has been making strides in the adult incontinence category since its launch in 2014. The Always Discreet Boutique product has a superabsorbent core with unique RapidDry™ liquid-to-gel technology that absorbs leaks and odors in seconds and Double LeakGuard™ Barriers to help keep you protected all day long.
AM: What are the similarities that can be found in Always Discreet Boutique versus menstrual products that are available in the brand?
SW: The entire line of Always Discreet is specifically designed to handle urine, a thinner fluid than menstrual fluid. While we understand some women have used Always Discreet products for their menstrual needs and it is perfectly safe to do so, we recommend using a menstrual product for your period as it is designed specifically to handle the thicker fluid.
AM: AI may seem like a condition that older women experience; however, what are common groups that also have an issue with this?
SW: While adult incontinence is generally perceived as something that only effects older women, 1 in 3 women over the age of 18 experience bladder leaks. There are a number of reasons women experience leaks including pregnancy, childbirth, menopause, excessive exercise (i.e. long-distance running), obesity and/or diabetes.
AM: How important was pushing forward on the stylish aspects of this product?
SW: For decades, women have had to make a choice between protection from bladder leaks or pretty underwear that makes them feel confident and sexy. Over the years, we spoke to thousands of women while developing and enhancing Always Discreet, and they told us that bulky bladder leak products can erode their confidence and femininity. Always Discreet Boutique was designed to give women a unique choice that gives her amazing protection, but still looks, feels and fits more like feminine panties. We feel that women shouldn’t have to choose between an underwear that makes them feel both protected and comfortable in their own skin. Now, women won't have to make that compromise with Always Discreet Boutique.
AM: What are the current offerings of this product and will there be more added to the line?
SW: Always Discreet Boutique underwear is available in Small/Medium and Large with Maximum absorbency. The sizes available are based on category sales demand. If there’s demand for additional sizes, those sizes will certainly be considered. As for the color, currently the rosé-colored underwear is available with a variety of 3 different delicate lace prints. The 3 designs in each pack are a simple bow for everyday elegance and 2 different flowery patterns that go from the front to the back on one side. We shared many design patterns and color options with women, and Always Discreet Boutique was ultimately approved by women like you! We’re excited to share this new style and designs, and we will continue to talk to women for their feedback. While we can’t share future innovations for competitive reasons, we’re committed to researching and developing products that will serve as advanced solutions for our consumers.
AM: When we attended the launch event, we found that women who are marathon runners and those that are pregnant - have an issue with AI - why does this take place?
SW: There are many things that can cause women to experience bladder leaks. During pregnancy and after childbirth specifically because your birth canal stretches to let your newborn through. As it stretches, your pelvic floor muscles stretch out too and a weakened pelvic floor can weaken your bladder control. Similarly, in the vein of exercise, certain exercises such as long distance running can make your pelvic area feel strained and increase your chance of experiencing leaks.
PHOTOS COURTESY | Always
Read the Nov Issue of Athleisure Mag and read Let's Talk Adult Incontinence in mag.
