Changing

How often should I change myself?

[matthewmeto]

As often as you need to? It really depends on what kind of protection you use and what you use it for. This was something I was also confused about, but based on the things I've read on this board, changing every 4-6 hours seems ideal. You don't want to have urine in contact with your skin for a very long time, and if your protection is unable to absorb it or it gets stale, then it can get uncomfortable very quickly and put you at risk for UTI's and other unpleasantries. On the other hand, you want to get some cost efficiency out of what you use.

I fortunately haven't had much experience with those unpleasantries, but I have typically worn my protection for 8-10 hours at a time since I also used the toilet. I only needed to change when it gets uncomfortable or if my protection can not handle any more. However, I'm reading that this is actually bad practice and can also put you at risk for nasty things.

The primer has some good information on this topic on this page here: http://www.incontinentsupport.org/chap1a.php. I'm sure the other users can provide you with some thoughtful advice, but I feel like every 4-6 hours is the best no matter what you use it for.

[JDinVirginia]

Diaperedmommy, there is no one answer to your question, but I essentially am in agreement with Matthew.

I would not worry about fully using up a premium diaper. For many of us that means changing at about every 5 to 7 hours. I routinely wear a cloth diaper overnight for about 10 1/2 hours with no problems. Some of us are more prone to rashes than others and should change more frequently.

However, to change at longer intervals, I presume that you are well-hydrated to keep your urine from becoming concentrated; I presume that you are checking yourself for any signs of pre-rash irritation in order to catch it early; I presume that you always are using rash cream or some other form of barrier; and I also presume that in addition to your shower you try to wash your diaper area at least once during the day.

It is recommended that you "air out" for a while without a diaper at least oncer a day to give the skin time to dry out.

A hand-held mirror is very helpful for checking your bottom and backside for any signs of irritation.

All of us have had to experiment to find what works for us. Let us know what works best for you.

--John

[mlhjr]

Mathew and John,
That is good advice, airing out is very important for your skin health and for all the fun stuff that can come from staying wet to long.

[B Brian]

A LOT of the advice we are giving you is already in the diaper primer. Please consider reading it fully, and maybe even consider it as your new bible.

[Porkchop]

I agree, at first I tried waiting until the premium diapers (I wear ConfiDry 24/7's) were full but realized I was getting rashes. When I started changing every 4-6 hours the rashes went away, I think because I didn't factor in the fact that I sweat which meant my skin got 'salty' etc and needed to air out. Yes, salty.... because it is in your sweat. LOL