TENA ProSkin Stretch: A Smarter Approach to Everyday Continence Care
Supporting Independence and Dignity in Continence Care: Why Product Design Matters
A practical guide for individuals and carers exploring how fit, fastening and flexible product design can support different everyday care routines.
When getting to the bathroom is only part of the challenge
Someone may be able to walk to the bathroom using a walking frame, yet still need help changing their continence product. Another person might manage a toilet visit independently but find small fastenings or putting on a fresh pair of pull-up pants difficult.
These moments reveal an often-overlooked part of continence care: protection against leakage matters, but so does how a product is put on, adjusted and changed.
For individuals, family carers and support workers, a thoughtful routine combines suitable protection, practical handling and respectful communication.
Independence and dignity look different for everyone
One person may want to complete as many steps of a product change as possible. Another may prefer assistance to avoid discomfort or fatigue. Both preferences deserve respect.
Choice and participation
Ask which parts of dressing, toileting or changing the person feels comfortable managing, and where help would be welcome.
Privacy and communication
Explain what assistance is needed, ask permission, protect privacy and allow enough time for the individual to respond.
Care needs may change between morning and evening, or from one day to the next. The goal is not to insist on independence, but to make sure support reflects the person's abilities, preferences and safety.
Why the way a product is designed matters
Choosing continence protection involves more than selecting an absorbency level. Fit, mobility, dexterity and the changing environment can all influence whether a product is practical for everyday use.
Pull-up underwear
Can be raised and lowered during toileting. Putting on a fresh pair generally involves passing it over the feet, which may be difficult for some people.
Tab-fastened briefs
Can be opened at the sides for fitting and changing. The ease of handling depends on the fastening design and the person's position and abilities.
Neither style is right for everyone. The most suitable choice is one that combines appropriate protection with a fit and changing method that works for the individual.
For help assessing protection needs, see Medisa's incontinence absorbency guide.
Meet TENA ProSkin Stretch
TENA ProSkin Stretch combines characteristics of pull-up underwear and adjustable tab-fastened briefs. Its stretch side panels and adjustable side fastenings offer different ways to handle the product, depending on the individual's abilities and whether assistance is required.
It is designed to be pulled up and down like underwear, while the side fastenings can also be opened for fitting and changing. This flexibility may be useful when a person's support needs vary across different situations.
Adjustable side fastenings
What they do: Allow the product to be opened and adjusted at the sides.
Why it may matter: Provide another way to fit or change the product when someone needs assistance.
Stretch side panels
What they do: Offer flexibility when fitting the brief around the body.
Why it may matter: Make fit and adjustment important parts of selecting a product that feels comfortable during daily routines.
Two ways to manage the product
What it does: Combines pull-up and adjustable-brief handling.
Why it may matter: Offers options for toileting and changes, depending on individual mobility and care requirements.
These design features do not guarantee independent use or eliminate the need for assistance. Correct sizing, fit and absorbency remain essential, and a healthcare professional can help where care needs are complex.
Three everyday situations where handling matters
The following are illustrative scenarios, not clinical case studies or claims about individual outcomes.
A person uses a walking frame and can manage some toilet visits but may need help putting on a fresh product.
Consider: pull-up handling and side-opening optionsA carer helps position and adjust a brief when the individual cannot comfortably manage every step.
Consider: accessible adjustable fasteningsA person participates in toileting at some times but needs more assistance when tired or less mobile.
Consider: flexible methods of fitting and changingProduct selection should always be based on the person's actual abilities, preferences and care needs rather than on a scenario alone.
Five ways to make continence care more manageable
- Start with the person's preferences. Ask what they would like to manage themselves and what help feels appropriate.
- Consider the changing environment. Think about whether changes occur while standing, seated or lying down, and whether safe assistance is available.
- Check size, positioning and comfort. An unsuitable fit can cause discomfort or contribute to leakage. Read Medisa's guide to common causes of product leaks.
- Keep communication respectful. Explain each step, seek permission and maintain privacy during personal care.
- Review changing needs. Seek advice from a GP or continence nurse if symptoms change, leakage persists, skin concerns arise or selecting a product becomes difficult.
TENA ProSkin Stretch Day or Night?
Day and Night versions are intended for different periods of use. The right choice depends on leakage patterns, fit, body position and the person's routine.
TENA ProSkin Stretch Day
An option to consider for daytime activities, toileting and changes.
Explore Stretch Day →TENA ProSkin Stretch Night
An option intended for overnight use, including protection considerations while lying down.
Explore Stretch Night →For a closer comparison, see Medisa's existing TENA ProSkin Stretch Day vs Night guide.
Common questions about TENA ProSkin Stretch
Can TENA ProSkin Stretch be pulled up and down like underwear?
Yes. Its design is intended to allow pull-up and pull-down handling as well as opening at the side fastenings. Whether someone can manage it independently depends on their abilities and circumstances.
How is it different from conventional tab-fastened briefs?
TENA ProSkin Stretch combines stretch side panels and adjustable fastenings with a design that can also be handled like pull-up underwear. Conventional tab-fastened briefs and pull-up products have different application methods.
Can it be used when a carer assists with changing?
Its adjustable side fastenings offer an option for assisted fitting and changing. Suitability depends on the individual's position, mobility, comfort and care requirements.
How should I choose between Day and Night?
Consider when the product will be worn, leakage needs, body position and fit. Medisa's Day vs Night comparison explains the two options in more detail.
What should I consider when selecting a size?
Use the manufacturer's current sizing guidance and consider body measurements, fit, movement and comfort. A product should feel secure without being excessively tight. Seek professional advice if fit or leakage problems continue.
Better continence care starts with the individual
Independence is not measured only by how many tasks someone completes alone. It also involves being heard, having choices and receiving support that respects personal dignity.
By considering mobility, fit, changing methods and individual preferences together, people and carers can make more informed choices. TENA ProSkin Stretch is one option worth exploring when flexible product handling is a priority.
Find continence care that fits your routine
Browse TENA products or explore Medisa's wider continence care range.
Explore TENA Products →Browse Incontinence AidsImportant: This article provides general information only and is not a substitute for personalised advice from a qualified healthcare professional. Product feature wording and image usage remain subject to TENA approval before publication.
