What Are Incontinence Pads with Wings?
If you’ve used menstrual pads in the past, you’re likely familiar with the concept of “wings”—those side flaps that fold over the edges of your underwear to help hold the pad in place. Incontinence pads with wings use a similar design. The goal is simple: minimize movement and prevent leaks.
But unlike menstrual pads, bladder leak pads are designed to handle different volumes, consistencies, and patterns of leakage. Incontinence protection also needs to be comfortable for longer wear, especially for women managing day-to-day activities, sleep, and sensitive skin.
So, do wings still serve the same purpose for incontinence? Yes—and no. Wings can help prevent pads from shifting. But depending on the pad’s shape, fit, and adhesive design, they may not be necessary at all. In fact, some newer pads on the market offer better protection without wings by prioritizing comfort, grip, and skin-safe materials.
Do You Actually Need Wings for Bladder Leak Protection?
The decision comes down to how your pad performs during real-life movement. Wings may provide a sense of extra security, especially if you move a lot throughout the day. However, they can also fold awkwardly or add bulk, which isn’t always ideal.
Let’s break down the pros and cons:
Pros of wings:
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It may help keep the pad centered in loose-fitting underwear
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Can reduce visible shifting for some users
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Familiar to those who’ve used menstrual pads
Cons of wings:
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Can cause friction or bunching, especially if the wings don’t lie flat
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Might not adhere well to every underwear type
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Often unnecessary when the pad is designed for incontinence, not menstruation
Importantly, wings aren’t the only or best solution for preventing pad movement. Research on pad performance has shown that secure placement and skin adherence are more influenced by adhesive quality, surface texture, and garment fit than by wings alone.
In one study, researchers noted that improved adhesive technology significantly reduced pad shifting and skin-related complications like dermatitis and pressure ulcers, even in patients with mobility challenges [1].
This insight suggests that instead of relying on wings, the real solution lies in better materials and design.
A Better Alternative: Pads That Stay Put Without Wings
At Attn: Grace, we’ve designed incontinence pads that stay securely in place—no wings required.
Why? Because wings aren’t always comfortable, and they don’t guarantee better protection. Our Skin-Safe™ bladder leak pads use a high-performance adhesive that adheres smoothly to a variety of underwear styles while maintaining softness and breathability.
Here’s what sets them apart:
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A plant-based top sheet that’s gentle on sensitive skin
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Available in hybird, moderate, heavy, heavy plus, and ultimate absorbency levels
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Made without dyes, PFAS, fragrances, or chlorine bleach
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A contoured design for real-life fit and movement
Instead of flaps and folds, we focus on secure fit and all-day comfort, especially for women navigating perimenopause, post-menopause, or postpartum recovery.
Whether you’re new to incontinence protection or searching for something better, our pads are made to meet your needs without compromise.
What Women Really Want from Their Pads
We’ve listened to hundreds of women over 40 to understand what truly matters in a pad. Their answers rarely include the word wings.
Instead, here’s what they tell us they need:
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Discretion without bulk: Something that fits naturally under clothes, not something that makes you feel overly padded or self-conscious.
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Gentle materials: No itching, rubbing, or harsh chemicals—just soft, breathable coverage.
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Real absorbency: A pad that handles leaks quickly, quietly, and confidently.
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Stays in place: Whether they’re at work, running errands, or lying down at night.
For one woman, it was about staying comfortable while flying across the country. For another, it was about finding protection that didn’t irritate her postmenopausal skin. Every story is different—but the goal is the same: comfort, dignity, and peace of mind.
Final Thoughts: Choosing What Works Best for You
So, do you need wings?
Not necessarily. What you need is a pad that stays put, protects you fully, and feels like it’s made for your life.
Wings can help in certain cases, especially with menstrual-style pads or looser underwear. But when it comes to modern bladder leak protection, smart adhesive, real fit, and skin-safe materials matter more. At Attn: Grace, we’ve chosen to focus on those things, so you don’t have to worry about whether your pad has wings or not.
Explore our incontinence pads and experience what it's like to feel protected and comfortable, without compromise.
Reference
[1] A systematic review and meta-analysis of incontinence-associated dermatitis, incontinence, and moisture as risk factors for pressure ulcer development. Beeckman, D., Van Lancker, A., Van Hecke, A., & Verhaeghe, S. Research in Nursing & Health. 2014; 37(3):204–218. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24700170/