Frequently Asked Questions

Yes there is. Each situation is unique, dependent on whether your loved one experiences any other health issues, but the most common sources of support are the following:

• Private insurance

• State programs

• Community-based programs

First, take a good look around the TENA website: we’ve gathered together lots of information from healthcare professionals and home carers looking after a relative or friend at home.

Every time you eat or drink, your body absorbs liquids. It’s the job of your kidneys to filter waste products from these fluids and make urine. A continuous trickle passes from the kidneys to the bladder, which slowly expands. When the bladder is full a signal goes to the brain indicating the need to use the toilet. Once at the toilet the brain then tells the large bladder muscle to squeeze and contract. At the same time it tells the support muscles (or pelvic floor muscles) that surround the urethra (the outlet from the bladder) to relax and let the urine pass.

It really depends on things like your build, age, diet and level of activity but the rough average is 4 to 8 times during the day and the occasional need to go in the night.

No. Taking in less fluid will make their urine more concentrated which will in turn irritate their bladder, causing them to urinate more often. You should encourage them to try and drink their usual amount or whenever they feel thirsty. However, it’s not recommended that they drink excessive amounts either as this could lead to distension of the bladder.

This will depend on the physical and mental condition of the person you are caring for. The right products can considerably increase user comfort and reduce the number of changes required. We have a comprehensive range of products designed for different care needs. Use our Product Finder to find the most appropriate products for your loved one.

TENA products can be found in most supermarkets and chemists.

Supermarkets usually sell the lighter TENA range of products. Chemists can offer a wider range, and if they don’t stock a particular TENA product, then they can place an order with the wholesaler.

For a list of retailers, please look in either the Products or Where to buy section of this website. Alternatively, call the TENA Advice Line on 0845 30 80 80 30.

TENA products can also be bought online at TENA Direct: www.tenadirect.co.uk

TENA products should be disposed of in a bin, they are not designed to be flushed away. Keeping a lidded bin in the bathroom or bedroom will make changing and disposal more convenient.

For further advice, please call the TENA advice line on 0845 30 80 80 30.

Alternatively, call The Continence Foundation help line on 0207 831 9831 (Monday to Friday from 9.30am to 4.30pm).

However, we would always recommend that you let your doctor know if your loved one is experiencing bladder problems.