Briefs, sometimes known as diapers, or in some cases products, refers to undergarments designed to absorb urine or stool.
Some patients with ALS wear briefs as a result of mobility issues which prevent getting to a suitable toilet in a timely manner. Others wear briefs due to coexisting medical conditions.
There are many different types of briefs. Some are intended to contain only urine, or small amounts of fecal waste. Others are intended to absorb significant amounts of waste and retain them for many hours.
Protective underwear, also known as pull-up underwear, are discreet undergarments that have minimal absorbancy characteristics. They are intended for minor incontinence. Briefs of this type can be useful when the patient still has the ability to put them on and off themselves, and are only wearing them as an "insurance policy", or to manage a coexisting condition.
Tab-style briefs are thicker, highly absorbent undergarments designed to handle significant bowel incontinence. They fasten with adhesive tabs on either side of the waist and, unlike pull-up underwear, are easier for caregivers to put on someone who is lying down. Briefs of this type are useful in later stages of ALS, where mobility issues are significant and the odds of not making it to a toilet on time are much higher.
Most products come in different sizes and have sizing guides on the packaging or online. Proper sizing is essential for comfort and absorbency.
Purchasing briefs in small quantities until proper sizing has been determined is ideal.
Some government and private insurance programs may offer a supply of briefs.