TL;DR
The Goal: Find pads that are invisible under clothing (2.5-5mm thick) but still hold sufficient liquid (50ml-760ml).
The Problem: 50% of women avoid wearing proper protection because they fear visible "bulk" or ridge lines under fitted clothes.
The Solution: Modern vertical absorption technology allows pads to be 5mm thin while holding up to 3.1 cups of liquid.
The Strategy: Match absorbency to your leak volume—don't "over-pad." Use seamless underwear and plant-based materials to reduce friction and noise.
Choose ultra-thin incontinence pads based on thickness (2.5-5mm), absorbency level matched to your needs, and plant-based materials that prevent bulkiness. Over 61% of U.S. women experience bladder leaks, with most seeking pads that offer invisible protection under clothing. The most discreet options balance minimal thickness with adequate absorption, using breathable materials that reduce friction and visible pad lines under fitted clothes.
Understanding Why Bladder Leak Protection Needs to Be Invisible
The Prevalence of Bladder Leaks Across All Ages
Bladder leaks affect women at every life stage, making discreet protection a universal need rather than an age-specific concern. Research shows that one in two women experience some form of urinary incontinence, with 61.8% of adult U.S. women reporting bladder leak symptoms. Among younger women, over one-third of those in their 20s experience incontinence, while prevalence climbs to 28% for women aged 30-39 and reaches 55% for those between 80-90 years old.
Postpartum bladder leaks represent one of the most common yet under-discussed challenges, with 85% of new mothers experiencing frequent leaks. Of these women, 36% face daily bladder leakage and 49% experience it weekly, with 61% continuing to struggle for more than six months postpartum. Stress urinary incontinence during coughing, sneezing, or lifting affects 76% of postpartum women.
During perimenopause and menopause, hormonal changes significantly increase incontinence risk. Studies indicate that 45% of perimenopausal women experience urinary incontinence, while postmenopausal prevalence ranges from 13.6% to 84.4%, with an average of 63.1%. Despite these staggering numbers, women wait an average of 6.5 years from their first symptoms before seeking professional help.
Why Discretion Matters for Quality of Life
The psychological and social impact of bladder leaks extends far beyond the physical symptoms. Research reveals that 71% of women with incontinence report feeling anxious, stressed, and self-conscious due to their condition. Three out of four women find their daily activities hindered by bladder leaks, and 67% have missed activities with family and friends because of incontinence concerns.
For working women, the need for discreet protection is particularly acute. One in four women take time off work due to bladder incontinence, and those with severe symptoms spend approximately $900 annually on care. The fear of visible pad lines, rustling sounds, or bulky shapes under professional attire adds an extra layer of stress to an already challenging condition.
What Women Prioritize in Incontinence Pads:
Priority |
Percentage of Women |
Why It Matters |
Invisibility under clothes |
87% |
Maintains confidence in professional and social settings |
Thinness without leaks |
79% |
Balances discretion with protection |
Comfort and breathability |
73% |
Prevents skin irritation during extended wear |
No rustling or noise |
64% |
Reduces self-consciousness in quiet environments |
Odor control |
58% |
Enables close social interactions without anxiety |
The relationship between product choice and quality of life is undeniable. Women who find truly discreet protection report significantly lower anxiety levels and greater willingness to participate in physical activities, social events, and intimate relationships.
What Makes an Incontinence Pad Truly Discreet
Thickness: The Most Critical Measurement
When evaluating discretion, pad thickness measured in millimeters is the single most important specification to examine. Ultra-thin incontinence pads typically range from 2.5mm to 5mm in thickness, which is comparable to or thinner than most credit cards (approximately 0.76mm per card, or 3-4 cards stacked).
Major brands market their thinness differently. Poise Ultra Thin pads claim to be 40% thinner than their regular pads while maintaining protection, though exact millimeter measurements vary by absorbency level. Always Discreet emphasizes "surprisingly thin and discreet" designs that fit under clothing without noticeable bulk.
Attn: Grace pads are engineered with specific thickness targets across the entire product line. Light Liners measure just 2.5mm thick—the thinnest option designed for drips and spotting. Light Hybrid Pads increase slightly to 2.8mm while adding dual-use functionality for both bladder leaks and period flow. Moderate, Heavy, Heavy Plus, and Ultimate pads all maintain a consistent 5mm thickness despite dramatically different absorbency capacities, ranging from 245ml to 760ml.
This consistency in thickness across absorbency levels is achieved through higher-density super absorbent polymer (SAP) cores rather than simply adding more material. The result is pads that provide heavy protection without the bulk traditionally associated with maximum absorbency products.
Material Composition and Bulkiness
The materials used in pad construction significantly affect both discretion and comfort. Conventional incontinence pads rely heavily on petroleum-based plastics and synthetics throughout their design, including the top sheet that sits directly against skin. These materials can feel stiff, create rustling sounds with movement, and tend to bunch or crinkle under fitted clothing.
Petroleum-based plastic top sheets are often embellished with colorful artificial dyes, chlorine bleach, and synthetic fragrances—all of which add chemical residues that can cause contact dermatitis characterized by redness, itching, burning, rash, swelling, or blisters. For women wearing pads 24/7, this near-constant skin contact with harsh chemicals creates an ongoing irritation risk.
In contrast, plant-based materials offer a softer, more flexible alternative. Attn: Grace's CLN DesignTM technology uses a plant-based, breathable top sheet made from renewable resources rather than petroleum-derived plastic. This material is hypoallergenic and dermatologist-tested-and-approved, and has earned the Dermatest Seal of Excellence Certification, confirming that it is safe and gentle even on the most sensitive skin.
Flexible, plant-based top sheets easily conform to body contours, reducing the visible pad outline that stiffer materials create. They also eliminate the "plasticky" feel and sound that many women associate with incontinence products, helping pads blend seamlessly with regular underwear.
Proper Fit and Pad Shape
Even ultra-thin pads become visible if they don't fit properly. Pad shape falls into two main categories: rectangular and contoured (figure-8 or hourglass shapes). Rectangular pads tend to be less bulky but don't align as well with body curves, making them best suited for lighter leakage. Contoured pads provide better coverage and leak protection but can be slightly bulkier if not sized correctly.
Length and width must match your body size and underwear style. Pads that are too long may extend beyond your underwear edge, creating visible lines. Pads that are too wide can bunch between the legs, causing both discomfort and visibility under fitted pants or leggings.
5 Signs Your Pad is Too Bulky for Discretion:
Visible lines or ridges show through pants when you look in a mirror from the side.
Bunching or folding occurs when you sit down or move between positions.
The pad shifts out of position within 30 minutes of wear.
You feel self-conscious adjusting or smoothing your clothing over the pad area.
The pad extends beyond your underwear edges, creating a double-layer effect.
Proper positioning is equally critical. The pad should sit centered in the underwear gusset, smoothed flat before putting on pants. Many women find that seamless, laser-cut underwear or styles with a cotton gusset hold pads more securely and minimize visible lines.
Matching Absorbency to Your Needs Without Sacrificing Discretion
The Absorbency Ladder Explained
The concept of an absorbency ladder helps women systematically match protection level to leak severity without over-padding. Using too high an absorbency creates unnecessary bulk, while too low an absorbency risks leaks and frequent changes that draw more attention than a properly sized pad would.
Absorbency is measured in milliliters (ml) or fluid ounces (oz). A general guideline: light liners handle approximately 50ml (3.5 tablespoons), moderate pads accommodate 135-245ml (9 tablespoons to 1 cup), and heavy to ultimate options range from 435ml to 760ml (1.8 to 3.1 cups).
Knowing when to size up involves an honest assessment of your leak patterns. If you're changing pads more than once every 2-3 hours during the day, or if you experience leaks despite wearing a pad, you likely need higher absorbency. Conversely, if your pad is barely damp after 4-6 hours of wear, you may be using more absorbency than necessary, which adds preventable bulk.
The Attn: Grace Absorbency Ladder:
Product |
Thickness |
Length |
Absorbency |
Best For |
Light Liners |
2.5mm |
190mm (7.5") |
50ml |
Drips, spotting, daily backup protection |
Light Hybrid Pads |
2.8mm |
230mm (9") |
135ml |
Light bladder leaks + period flow (perimenopause) |
Moderate Pads |
5mm |
265mm (10.5") |
245ml |
Surges from sneezing, laughing, exercise |
Heavy Pads |
5mm |
340mm (13.5") |
435ml |
Gushes, streams, extended daytime wear |
Heavy Plus Pads |
5mm |
370mm (14.5") |
540ml |
Heavy leakage, postpartum lochia |
Ultimate Pads |
5mm |
400mm (16") |
760ml |
Overnight, maximum protection for side sleepers |
This ladder structure allows women to start at their current need level and adjust up or down based on real-world performance rather than guessing or defaulting to maximum protection "just in case."
Light to Moderate Leaks: Your Most Discreet Options
For stress urinary incontinence—the most common type, affecting an estimated 15 million adult U.S. women—light to moderate protection typically suffices. This type of leak often involves small amounts of urine escaping during activities that put pressure on the bladder, such as coughing, sneezing, laughing, or lifting.
Light Liners at 2.5mm thickness offer barely-there protection for women experiencing occasional drips or post-void dribbling. Their ultra-thin profile makes them genuinely invisible under all clothing types, from leggings to fitted work dresses. The micro-perforated plant-based top sheet quickly wicks moisture away from skin while maintaining a soft, fabric-like feel.
Light Hybrid Pads represent a unique category designed specifically for women in perimenopause who experience both bladder leaks and menstrual changes. At just 2.8mm thick and 230mm long, they bridge the gap between traditional liners and full pads. The absorbent core is optimized to handle both urine and menstrual blood viscosities, eliminating the need to switch products mid-cycle.
Moderate Pads at 5mm thickness strike the "Goldilocks" balance between discretion and protection for daytime wear. The 265mm (10.5") length provides adequate front-to-back coverage for most body types, while side leak guards and a rapid-wicking core prevent the dampness that creates visible wet spots. Despite being twice as thick as liners, moderate pads remain undetectable under most clothing when properly positioned.
Clinical testing shows that properly fitted moderate pads reduce anxiety about visible leakage by 68% compared to wearing inadequate protection. Women report feeling confident in professional settings, during exercise classes, and in social situations where they previously felt self-conscious.
Heavy Protection That Still Stays Hidden
The engineering challenge of heavy absorbency pads is maintaining the same 5mm thickness profile while dramatically increasing capacity. Attn: Grace Heavy Pads absorb 435ml—nearly twice the capacity of moderate pads—by using a higher-density SAP core and extending length to 340mm (13.5"). The extra length provides significant posterior coverage, which is particularly important when sitting for extended periods.
Heavy Plus Pads were specifically designed for postpartum recovery, when women manage both bladder incontinence and lochia (post-birth bleeding). The 540ml capacity and 370mm (14.5") length make these pads suitable for the heaviest daytime protection needs. The extended back design prevents leakage while seated, a common concern for new mothers recovering from childbirth.
Ultimate Pads represent maximum protection in a 5mm profile, absorbing up to 760ml across their 400mm (16") length. While marketed for overnight use, many women with severe daytime incontinence or mobility limitations rely on Ultimate pads for confidence during long meetings, travel, or situations where bathroom access is limited.
The key to discretion with heavy pads is proper underwear selection. High-waisted, full-coverage styles with wide gussets accommodate longer pads better than low-rise or bikini cuts. Seamless construction prevents the underwear-pad combination from creating multiple visible lines.
The Hidden Cost of Conventional Ultra-Thin Pads
Skin Irritation from Petroleum-Based Materials
The push for thinner pads has led many manufacturers to rely heavily on synthetic materials that can compromise skin health. Research indicates that up to one-third of women experience itching and irritation from contact with synthetic materials in incontinence pads. This irritation, formally known as incontinence-associated dermatitis (IAD), results from prolonged skin exposure to moisture combined with chemical irritants.
Conventional incontinence products contain several problematic ingredients. Petroleum-based top sheets, while thin , don't allow proper air circulation, trapping heat and moisture against skin. Chlorine bleach used in whitening processes leaves chemical residues that irritate sensitive vulvar tissue. Synthetic fragrances and artificial dyes—added to mask odors and make products visually appealing—are among the most common allergens in feminine care products.
For women wearing pads 24/7, this creates a perfect storm for contact dermatitis. The vulva is one of the most absorbent and sensitive areas of the body, with thin, delicate tissue that readily absorbs whatever chemicals are present. Symptoms include redness, burning sensations, rashes, swelling, and in severe cases, blistering or open sores.
Incontinence-associated dermatitis affects approximately 5.6-50% of adults with urinary incontinence, with higher rates among those using conventional pads daily. The condition creates a vicious cycle: irritated skin becomes more permeable to irritants, worsening inflammation and making skin more susceptible to bacterial and fungal infections.
Women with pre-existing skin conditions, diabetes, or compromised immune systems face even higher risks. Additionally, the problem escalates with age, as postmenopausal skin becomes thinner and less resilient due to declining estrogen levels.
The Plant-Based Alternative
Plant-based incontinence pads address these skin health concerns while maintaining the thinness, discretion and absorbency women need. Attn: Grace's CLN DesignTM technology uses 100% plant-derived, renewable materials for the outermost layer of the top sheet—so that the layer in direct, constant contact with skin is gentle and soft, in contrast to petroleum-based top layers that are often harsh and irritating.
This plant-based top sheet is made from sustainably sourced materials that are processed without chlorine bleach, leaving no harsh chemical residues. The result is a hypoallergenic surface that's been independently tested and awarded the Dermatest Certification of Excellence, confirming it is safe and gentle even on sensitive skin.
What "no petroleum against the skin" actually means: All high-performing incontinence pads rely on superabsorbent polymers (SAP) in the absorbent core to lock away fluid. These SAPs are petroleum-derived and are fully enclosed within the interior of the pad.
At Attn: Grace, the layer that sits directly against your skin is made from soft, plant-based fibers—not petroleum-based plastics. This topsheet functions as a permeable interface: it allows liquid to pass through quickly, then wicks moisture away from the skin and into the absorbent core below. The result is rapid absorption, effective moisture management, and a dry surface feel—without petroleum-derived materials coming into contact with your body.
This design philosophy is not incidental—it reflects Attn: Grace’s broader commitments as the first Certified B Corp in the incontinence category. B Corp certification is awarded only to companies that meet rigorous, independently verified standards for social and environmental performance, accountability, and transparency across their entire operation. That means evaluating not just the product itself, but how materials are sourced, how workers are treated, how environmental impact is measured and reduced, and how business decisions consider long-term stakeholder well-being rather than short-term gain.
For Attn: Grace, this commitment shows up in tangible ways: from prioritizing responsible material choices and thoughtful product construction, to investing in carbon-neutral manufacturing processes and designing recyclable, minimalist packaging to reduce waste. The goal isn’t perfection, but continuous improvement—making deliberate, science-informed choices that minimize harm while delivering products that genuinely perform. In short, the same care that goes into what touches your skin also guides how the company operates in the world
How to Choose Based on Your Life Stage
For Postpartum Recovery (85% Experience Bladder Leaks)
Postpartum bladder leaks represent one of the most prevalent yet under-supported aspects of recovery. Recent surveys confirm that 85% of new mothers experience frequent bladder leaks, with 36% facing daily leakage and 49% experiencing it weekly. Perhaps most concerning, 61% of women continue struggling with incontinence beyond six months postpartum.
The physical trauma of pregnancy and delivery—whether vaginal or cesarean—weakens pelvic floor muscles and stretches connective tissue. Stress urinary incontinence affects 76% of postpartum women, manifesting as leaks during common activities like coughing (50% of women), sneezing, lifting, or even laughing with their newborns
For immediate postpartum needs, Heavy Plus Pads offer appropriate protection for both lochia (post-birth bleeding) and bladder leaks. The 540ml capacity and 370mm (14.5") length provide extended front-to-back coverage, particularly important during the first 2-4 weeks when bleeding and leakage are heaviest. The 5mm thickness remains discreet enough under postpartum recovery clothing while delivering reliable protection.
Timeline for transitioning down the absorbency ladder:
Weeks 1-2 postpartum: Heavy Plus or Ultimate pads for heavy lochia plus bladder leaks
Weeks 3-4: Transition to Heavy pads as lochia lightens
Weeks 5-8: Moderate pads for residual spotting and ongoing bladder leaks
Months 3-6: Light Hybrid or Moderate pads depending on leak severity
6+ months: Re-evaluate with healthcare provider if leaks persist; may benefit from pelvic floor physical therapy
Only 15% of mothers report receiving adequate healthcare support for postpartum incontinence, despite 80% wishing their providers had better educated them about the issue. Women should know that while postpartum bladder leaks are common, they are treatable—and shouldn't be accepted as a permanent "new normal."
For Perimenopause and Menopause (45-63% Prevalence)
Hormonal changes during perimenopause and menopause significantly increase urinary incontinence risk. Studies show that 45% of perimenopausal women experience incontinence, with rates rising to 63.1% among postmenopausal women. The prevalence peaks in women over 65, with up to 75% reporting some degree of bladder leakage.
Declining estrogen levels thin vulvar and urethral tissues, weaken pelvic floor muscles, and reduce tissue elasticity. This creates the perfect conditions for both stress incontinence (leaks during physical exertion) and urgency incontinence (sudden, intense urges that may not allow enough time to reach the bathroom). Many women experience mixed incontinence—a combination of both types—which affects 31-33% of women with urinary incontinence.
Light Hybrid Pads serve a unique dual purpose during perimenopause, when women may still experience irregular periods alongside emerging bladder control issues. At 2.8mm thickness and 135ml absorbency, these pads handle both light bladder leaks and menstrual flow, eliminating the need to stock two separate product types. The versatility particularly appeals to women in their 40s and early 50s navigating unpredictable cycle changes.
As perimenopause progresses to menopause and menstrual periods cease, Moderate to Heavy pads become appropriate based on leak severity. Women with primarily stress incontinence during exercise, sneezing, or lifting may find Moderate pads (245ml) sufficient. Those with urgent incontinence needs or mixed symptoms often require Heavy pads (435ml) for daytime confidence, especially during long meetings, travel, or social events where bathroom access may be limited.
The psychological impact of menopausal incontinence deserves acknowledgment. Many women report feeling embarrassed, anxious, or "old" when bladder leaks begin. Finding truly discreet protection that doesn't compromise comfort or skin health can significantly improve quality of life during this transition.
For Active Lifestyles and Work
Stress urinary incontinence is particularly common among physically active women, affecting those who run, do high-impact aerobics, lift weights, or practice yoga. The repeated abdominal pressure from these activities can trigger leaks even in younger women with otherwise healthy pelvic floors.
Athletes and fitness enthusiasts benefit from Moderate Pads that provide 245ml absorbency in a 5mm profile thin enough to avoid chafing or discomfort during movement. The rapid-wicking core and side leak guards prevent the dampness and odor that would otherwise interrupt workouts. Many women report that finding the right protection finally allows them to return to CrossFit, running clubs, or trampoline fitness classes they'd abandoned due to leak concerns.
Professional environments present their own discretion challenges. Women report anxiety about visible pad lines under fitted work attire, rustling sounds during meetings, and managing changes in workplace bathrooms. One in four women has taken time off work due to bladder incontinence, representing both personal suffering and economic impact.
For professional settings, Light to Moderate pads typically suffice for daytime wear, with the specific choice depending on leak frequency and severity. The key is selecting a pad thin enough to remain invisible under tailored pants, pencil skirts, or sheath dresses—typically 5mm or less. Seamless underwear in neutral colors further enhances discretion, as does positioning the pad correctly before leaving home.
Women in physically demanding professions—nurses, teachers, retail workers—who can't easily access bathrooms may require Heavy pads despite having only moderate leaks, simply to extend wear time between changes. This strategic "over-padding" is acceptable when discretion remains intact due to the pad's thin profile.
Practical Tips: Making Any Pad More Discreet
Even the best-designed pad can become visible if not properly used and positioned. These evidence-based strategies maximize discretion regardless of which brand or absorbency level you choose.
7 Ways to Maximize Discretion:
Choose the correct absorbency—don't over-pad. Using more absorbency than you need adds unnecessary bulk. If your pad is barely damp after 3-4 hours, size down. The most discreet pad is the one that fits your absorbency needs exactly—not more, not less.
Wear seamless, form-fitting underwear. Laser-cut, bonded-edge underwear without elastic leg openings holds pads flat against your body and eliminates the double-line effect of underwear seams plus pad edges. Full-coverage styles work better than bikini cuts for longer pads.
Position the pad centered and smooth after dressing. Place the pad in the center of your underwear gusset before putting underwear on. After dressing, run your hands over your clothing to smooth any minor ripples. This takes 10 seconds and dramatically improves invisibility.
Opt for darker or high-waisted bottoms. While this shouldn't limit your wardrobe, darker colors (navy, black, charcoal) show fewer lines than light pastels. High-waisted pants and skirts accommodate longer pads better than low-rise styles.
Try samples or small packs before buying bulk. Most brands offer variety or sample packs. Test products under your typical clothing before committing to bulk purchases. What works under yoga pants may not work under dress slacks.
Change based on activity level, not a set schedule. If you're going from desk work to an exercise class, change beforehand even if your current pad isn't full. Fresh pads perform better during high-impact activities.
Pair with moisture-wicking, breathable clothing layers. Natural fabrics like cotton and moisture-wicking athletic wear help manage overall dampness and temperature, reducing the sweat + urine combination that can telegraph through outer layers.
Additional discretion hack: Keep a small pouch in your purse with 1-2 backup pads and a resealable disposal bag. The confidence of knowing you have backups often reduces anxiety about your current pad failing.
Why Attn: Grace Pads Are Designed for Discretion First
Attn: Grace was founded with a clear and focused mission: to create incontinence care that never asks women to compromise between reliable protection, skin health and comfort. Co-founders Alex Fennell and Mia Abbruzzese were struck by how frequently women using conventional incontinence products reported chronic irritation, discomfort, and skin breakdown. As they examined the category more closely, a consistent pattern emerged—many widely used products relied on petroleum-based plastics, chlorine bleaching, synthetic dyes, and added fragrances. These materials were common not because they improved performance or comfort, but because they were inexpensive and easy to scale.
Attn: Grace took a different approach. Designed by women and informed by real-world use, the brand prioritizes what actually matters to the people wearing the product every day: discretion, comfort, and material safety. Each pad is engineered to remain visually undetectable under a wide range of clothing—from form-fitting athletic wear to tailored professional attire—without sacrificing absorbency or fit.
A defining example of this user-led engineering is the brand’s consistent 5 mm thickness across Moderate, Heavy, and Ultimate absorbency levels. Achieving this required years of refinement to optimize absorbency per millimeter, allowing women to choose protection level based on need—not bulk. The result is high-performance incontinence care that feels lighter, looks discreet, and is built with long-term skin health in mind.
Attn: Grace’s CLN DesignTM technology replaces petroleum-based top sheets with plant-derived, renewable materials that are softer, more breathable, and hypoallergenic. The absence of chlorine bleach, synthetic fragrances, and dyes eliminates common irritants while maintaining the clean, fresh performance women expect. The Dermatest Seal of Excellence provides third-party validation of the gentle formulation.
As the first Certified B Corp.TM in the incontinence category, Attn: Grace meets verified standards for social and environmental performance, transparency, and accountability. The certification encompasses carbon-neutral manufacturing, sustainable sourcing of materials, and ethical labor practices. Recyclable, minimalist packaging reduces environmental impact without compromising product protection.
The complete absorbency ladder ensures women can find precisely the right protection for their needs:
Light Liners (2.5mm, 50ml) for drips and daily backup
Light Hybrid Pads (2.8mm, 135ml) for bladder leaks + period flow
Moderate Pads (5mm, 245ml) for surges and sneezes
Heavy Pads (5mm, 435ml) for extended wear
Heavy Plus Pads (5mm, 540ml) for postpartum and maximum day protection
Ultimate Pads (5mm, 760ml) for overnight confidence
This approach empowers women to match protection to need rather than defaulting to maximum absorbency out of fear. The result is genuinely discreet protection that supports active, confident living at every life stage.
Frequently Asked Questions
How thin should an incontinence pad be to stay invisible under clothes?
Ultra-thin is key. Ultra-thin incontinence pads should measure between 2.5mm and 5mm to remain invisible under most clothing. Attn: Grace Light Liners at 2.5mm offer a “barely there” feel and are ideal for light drips. Attn: Grace’s 5mm pads, like the Moderate or Heavy options, provide substantial protection without noticeable bulk under fitted pants, dresses, or activewear. Proper positioning and seamless underwear further enhance discretion.
What's the difference between ultra-thin pads and regular incontinence pads?
Thickness and technology. Ultra-thin pads typically measure 40-50% thinner than regular incontinence pads by using higher-density super absorbent polymer cores and thinner material layers. Regular pads may be 8-10mm thick, creating visible bulk, while ultra-thin options maintain 2.5-5mm profiles. However, not all ultra-thin pads offer the same absorbency—check milliliter (ml) capacity rather than relying on thickness alone to determine protection level.
Can I wear incontinence pads with leggings or yoga pants?
Yes. Ultra-thin pads designed specifically for discretion work well under leggings and yoga pants. Choose pads 5mm or thinner with contoured shapes that align with body curves. Attn: Grace Moderate Pads (5mm, 265mm length) and Light Hybrid Pads (2.8mm, 230mm) are popular choices for active wear. Seamless underwear in neutral colors and proper pad positioning minimize visible lines during exercise or casual wear.
Do plant-based incontinence pads work as well as regular ones?
Yes. High-quality plant-based incontinence pads can meet or exceed the performance of conventional petroleum-based products—while supporting better skin health. Attn: Grace pads are engineered with a high-capacity absorbent core and a proprietary CLN Design™ plant-based topsheet that manages fluid rapidly and efficiently. The topsheet acts as a permeable interface: it pulls urine away from the skin surface through capillary action, distributes it quickly into the core, and helps maintain a drier microclimate at the skin.
This moisture management is critical, as prolonged exposure to urine—particularly its salts and variable pH—can compromise the skin barrier. The CLN Design™ topsheet is hypoallergenic, Dermatest “Excellent” certified, and designed to reduce friction, heat retention, and occlusion compared to traditional plastic-based films. In user studies and post-market feedback, plant-based topsheets are associated with fewer reports of irritation and discomfort, especially among women who wear incontinence products continuously.
Is cotton suitable for urine leaks?
Short answer: No. Cotton is often perceived as a “natural” or gentler option, but it performs poorly in the context of urinary incontinence. Cotton fibers are highly absorbent but not directional: they soak up liquid and hold it against the skin rather than moving it away. Once saturated, cotton remains wet, collapses structurally, and increases friction—creating an environment that promotes maceration, irritation, and odor.
Urine further complicates this issue. Its salts and pH variability can degrade the skin barrier when moisture is trapped, particularly with prolonged contact. Because cotton lacks effective wicking and rapid transfer properties, it cannot reliably separate urine from the skin surface, making it unsuitable for managing bladder leaks.
Do Attn: Grace's plant-based topsheet outperform cotton?
Yes. The CLN Design™ plant-based topsheet used in Attn: Grace pads is engineered specifically for fluid management—not just absorption. Unlike cotton, its fiber structure promotes rapid, one-way wicking: liquid moves through the topsheet and into the absorbent core, while the surface remains comparatively dry. This directional flow reduces skin contact with urine, minimizes rewetting, and supports better breathability and comfort over time.
The result is a topsheet that combines the skin-friendliness people associate with natural fibers, with the performance required for effective incontinence care—something cotton alone cannot deliver.
How do I know what absorbency level I need?
Check your frequency. Assess your leak frequency and volume: if you change pads more than once every 2-3 hours or experience leaks despite wearing protection, size up. If pads remain mostly dry after 4-6 hours, size down. Start with a mid-range option like Moderate (245ml) and adjust based on performance. Attn: Grace's absorbency ladder ranges from Light Liners (50ml) to Ultimate (760ml), allowing precise matching to your needs.
Are ultra-thin pads suitable for overnight use?
Yes. Ultra-thin pads can provide overnight protection if you choose sufficient absorbency. Attn: Grace Ultimate Pads measure just 5mm thick yet absorb 760ml (over 3 cups) across their 16-inch length, making them ideal for overnight wear and side sleeping. The misconception that thin equals inadequate stems from older technology—modern high-density cores deliver heavy protection without bulk.
Will thinner pads cause more leaks?
No. Thickness doesn't determine leak protection—absorbency capacity and retention do. A 2.5mm pad with proper absorbent polymer technology can outperform a 10mm pad made with less advanced materials. Look for milliliter (ml) capacity ratings rather than physical thickness. Attn: Grace's 5mm Heavy Pads absorb 435ml, nearly twice what many thicker conventional pads hold.
How often should I change my incontinence pads?
Every 3-4 hours. Change pads every 3-4 hours during the day for light to moderate absorbency, or when 70-80% saturated, whichever comes first. Overnight pads can last 8-10 hours if absorbency is sufficient (typically 500ml or more). Leaving saturated pads against skin increases irritation and infection risk. If you're changing more frequently than every 2 hours, you likely need higher absorbency rather than more frequent changes.
Can incontinence pads cause skin irritation?
Yes, particularly if they use harsh, synthetic chemical irritants in their design, or if they are poorly engineered and don’t properly wick moisture away from the skin. Conventional incontinence pads containing petroleum-based plastics, chlorine bleach, synthetic fragrances, and dyes cause irritation in up to one-third of users. This condition, called incontinence-associated dermatitis (IAD), results from chemical irritants combined with moisture. Plant-based pads like Attn: Grace use hypoallergenic materials that have been independently evaluated and awarded a Dermatest “Excellent” rating, indicating very good skin compatibility. This certification supports a reduced risk of irritation while maintaining effective incontinence protection.[H3] What makes Attn: Grace pads different from drugstore brands?
Skin safety and design. Attn: Grace pads feature CLN Design plant-based top sheets (no petroleum against skin), consistent 2.5-5mm ultra-thin profiles across absorbency levels, Dermatest Excellent certification for skin safety, and B Corp certification for environmental and social responsibility. The absorbency ladder (50ml to 760ml) allows precise matching to needs. Drugstore brands typically use petroleum-based materials, chlorine bleach, and synthetic fragrances that can irritate sensitive skin.
Are there incontinence pads specifically for postpartum use?
Yes. Attn: Grace pads provide safe, effective postpartum protection across every stage of recovery—from the heaviest days immediately after birth to lighter support as the body heals.
In the early postpartum period, when lochia and bladder leaks are most substantial, many women start with Ultimate or Heavy Plus pads, which offer high-capacity absorbency and extended length for reliable coverage, including when seated during nursing or resting. These pads are designed to manage heavy fluid flow while maintaining a thin, breathable profile that supports skin health during continuous wear.
As bleeding decreases and bladder control improves, women can step down through Heavy and Moderate absorbency levels, and eventually transition to Hybrid pads or liners for light leaks and everyday confidence. This graduated absorbency system allows protection to be matched precisely to changing needs—without unnecessary bulk or irritation.
Because postpartum skin can be especially sensitive, all Attn: Grace pads feature plant-based topsheets with no petroleum against the skin and materials that have earned a Dermatest “Excellent” rating for skin compatibility. The result is postpartum care that prioritizes both effective protection and long-term comfort throughout recovery.
Can I exercise with incontinence pads?
Absolutely. When exercising with incontinence pads, it’s important to choose protection that matches both your activity level and offers breathability. Look for pads that are 100% breathable—like Attn: Grace— so heat and moisture can escape rather than becoming trapped against the skin. Breathability is especially critical during movement, when friction, sweat, and prolonged wear can increase the risk of irritation.
For low-impact activities such as yoga, Pilates, or walking, Moderate absorbency (245 ml) is typically sufficient. For running, jumping, or other high-impact workouts, Heavy absorbency (435 ml) provides added security. Attn: Grace pads maintain an ultra-thin 5 mm profile, allowing them to move with the body without bunching or chafing, even during dynamic activity.
Stress incontinence is common during exercise—affecting approximately 76% of postpartum women and many perimenopausal and athletic women—making appropriate, breathable protection essential for staying active comfortably and confidently.