Absorbent Undergarments and Special Needs Children

By Lisamarie Sanders

Resolving issues of incontinence, lack of bowel or bladder control, can be a difficult and frustrating task for parents of special needs children. Neurological, physical and cognitive problems often lead to delayed control over bowel and bladder functions. In fact, says Dr. Stephen Nold, a pediatric urologist with Advocate Hope Children's Hospital in Oak Lawn, Ill., "Usually bowel and bladder control [in special needs children] lags 18 to 24 months behind normal kids."

Although most special needs children eventually learn to recognize and respond to their bodies' signals, the wait can be long and stressful. And while parents may wish they could hurry the process along, there is little that they can do. Experts agree that parents and caregivers shouldn't force toilet and night training, but should wait until they see signs of readiness in the child. These signs include:

• Having regular bowel movements at about the same time every day
• Staying dry for extended periods of time
• Pausing during activities when wetting or soiling
• Showing discomfort when pants are wet or soiled
• Showing or telling caregivers when pants are wet or soiled
• Showing interest in using the toilet
• Being able to follow simple directions
• Being able to pull pants up and down
• Being able to sit or stand still for a short period of time

Until a child is physically and cognitively ready to begin training, disposable absorbent undergarments offer a helpful and convenient alternative. They reduce the discomfort of the child and decrease the amount of laundry parents and caretakers have to do. Additionally, because they are less bulky than diapers, absorbent undergarments are almost unnoticeable, which helps the child "fit in" with his peers – a critical issue for most special needs kids.

Want to see more?

• Good Mornings: Bedwetting and Your Child
• Wet, but Dry
• The Effects of Divorce on Children -- A Potential Cause for Bedwetting
• Bedwetting and Special Needs Kids