“Some nights, I had to put a sock in [our daughter’s] pants to help with incontinence until the next day when we could get money.”

Unfortunately, stories like these are all too common among those living with bladder and bowel control issues because they cannot afford the protective products required to stay comfortable and healthy.

1 in 3 families in the US currently live in diaper need, and the number of people living without adequate incontinence products, like protective underwear, diapers, and bladder control pads, extends much further. The Diaper Divide affects not only infants and parents but also extends to children above the typical potty training age, individuals with disabilities, and adults and seniors with incontinence. Without supplies, these individuals face incredible challenges in every area of their lives. This is what’s known as the Diaper Divide.

According to a survey conducted by Aeroflow Urology, over 70% of respondents with incontinence or caring for someone with the condition, revealed that they cannot afford to purchase incontinence supplies.

“I struggled to figure out financially how I was going to be able to pay for my incontinence products, as I'm a senior citizen on government assistance.”

The consequences of the Diaper Divide are dire. Individuals who lack access to incontinence supplies are forced to sacrifice their dignity, mental and physical health, and their quality of life.  Two in five respondents of the Aeroflow Urology study said they experienced complicated medical issues due to a lack of access to products, such as infections and worsened incontinence symptoms. Moreover, those in the Diaper Divide are burdened with impossible financial choices, having to prioritize incontinence products over groceries, rent, and other necessities.

“Money was so tight we had to discuss whether or not we'd skip meals or diapers. We chose meals.”

This crisis must be addressed urgently. We cannot stand by as individuals and families struggle to meet their basic needs. These supplies are essentials, like clean water and housing. Because of this, we believe that incontinence products should be classified as medically necessary items under insurance plans nationwide. This would ensure that individuals of all ages and abilities have access to the supplies they require. Government officials and insurance providers have the power to make this change, and we call upon them to take immediate action. 

We urge you to help us bring an end to incontinence product need by signing this petition, which seeks to raise awareness and advocate for classifying incontinence products as medically necessary for people of all ages and abilities. By signing this petition, you are immediately making a difference in the lives of others. We thank you in advance for your support. Let’s close the Diaper Divide!

Learn more about how you can help close the Diaper Divide by visiting:

AeroflowUrology.com/DiaperDivide

Use #DiaperDivide on social media to share this petition and end incontinence product scarcity!