How Trauma Affects Veterans and Incontinence Products That Can Help

“Thank you for your service” is something Americans say with deep respect to those who have served.  What is less often discussed is that some veterans, both men and women, return home with trauma-related injuries that can lead to long-term physical effects, including incontinence. 

For many, this can feel isolating. But incontinence after trauma is more common than people realize, and it is manageable with the right medical support and protective products. Below, we’ll explore how trauma can affect bladder and bowel control and what options are available to help veterans regain comfort and confidence.

Male Veterans, Trauma and Incontinence 

Did you know there is a group of young male veterans who have been affected by incontinence? The American Urological Association reports that men age 55 or younger who have served in the armed forces are nearly three times more likely to report urinary incontinence compared to non-military peers. According to TaskandPurpose.com, between 2002 and 2015, over 625,290 post 9/11 veterans reported complaints to the Department of Veterans Affairs with musculoskeletal back pain. 

What is Musculoskeletal Pain? 

Musculoskeletal pain may result from accidents, falls, repetitive strain, jerking movements, or postural stress. When nerves are compressed or damaged, the body’s communication system can be disrupted. 

The spinal cord carries signals between the brain and the rest of the body and plays a role in nearly every bodily function. According to Mayo Clinic, trauma to the spinal cord may result in: 

• Loss of movement 

• Loss of bladder or bowel control 

• Exaggerated activities or spasms 

In other words, herniated discs, spinal cord injuries, or nerve damage can interfere with bladder and bowel function. For veterans living with these injuries, reliable protection becomes an important part of daily life. 

Female Veterans and the Effects of Trauma 

Pew Research states that women veterans make up about 11% of veterans in the United States. While the group is smaller, women are still affected by the same conditions as men while serving. Levels of trauma and post-traumatic stress (PTSD) can result in incontinence-related issues and other pelvic floor issues.  

According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Welfare, women veterans who experience military sexual trauma (MST) or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are 2-3 times more likely to have chronic pelvic pain. Pelvic pain can be located in the lower abdomen, genital area, lower back, or thighs. 

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) has also been linked to causing incontinence in women veterans, according to a study by Herman and Wallace Pelvic Rehabilitation Institute. In this study of 986 women, 19.7% reported urgency/mixed incontinence (UI), and 18.9% reported symptoms of stress incontinence.  

Today, organizations such as The Wounded Warrior Project offer veterans and their families support in various ways. Veterans can receive mental health, peer, and VA assistance. Veterans who are managing incontinence can benefit from the many options of absorbent products offered at NorthShore.  

When Leaks Are More Than Occasional

Some veterans experience occasional light leaks. Others may find that bladder changes are heavier, more frequent, or harder to control — especially at night.

This level of leakage is sometimes referred to as Heavy Bladder Leakage (HBL). It goes beyond small drips or minor urgency. Individuals managing HBL may fully empty their bladder without warning, experience repeated overnight episodes, or find that standard store-brand “maximum” products are not designed to handle that volume.

Recognizing the difference matters. Using protection designed specifically for heavy bladder leakage can help prevent leaks through clothing or bedding and reduce the cycle of nighttime disruptions.

Incontinence Products That Can Help Veterans 

The right product depends on leak level, mobility, and lifestyle. Many veterans find that upgrading to higher-absorbency protection significantly reduces anxiety and allows them to focus on recovery and daily activities.

Adult Diapers with Tabs  

Adult diapers with tabs offer a customizable fit and maximum security, making them a strong choice for moderate to total urinary or bowel incontinence. 
 
One example of a top-seller is MEGAMAX. MegaMax adult diapers are designed for extended wear and high-capacity protection, offering up to 12 hours of reliable coverage. They are especially helpful overnight or during long appointments when changing may not be convenient. 

Benefits of adult diapers:  

• High absorbency for urinary and/or bowel leaks 

• Easier changing for caregivers or limited mobility 

• Adjustable fit with secure, refastenable tabs 

Pull-Up Underwear  

Pull-up style underwear offers a more traditional underwear look and feel while still providing dependable absorbency. 
 
GoSupreme pull-up underwear delivers up to 8 hours of protection and is ideal for moderate to heavy incontinence. Improved leg elastics help reduce leaks during both daytime activity and overnight use. 

Benefits of pull-up underwear: 

• Simple to step into and wear like regular underwear 

• Discreet appearance under clothing 

• No need to adjust tabs around the waist 

• Breathable material that moves with your body – good for active lifestyles 

Liners and Pads 

Liners, also known as pads, are worn inside regular underwear and are ideal for lighter bladder leaks or as a boost to another product. 

DynaDry Supreme are large, unisex absorbent liners designed for both urinary and bowel leakage. They offer more length and absorbency than typical store brands.  

Men managing lighter leaks can try DoubleStop Male Guards for added protection. Women with lighter bladder leakage can try DynaDry Bladder Pads that offer protection for light urinary incontinence. 

Benefits of liners:  

• Easy to change and dispose of 

• Can be worn inside regular underwear 

• Flexible option for lighter needs 

How Veterans Can Receive NorthShore Products Through the VA Pharmacy 

Veterans who qualify for incontinence supplies through the VA may be able to receive NorthShore products with the right documentation and approval. If you believe NorthShore products are medically appropriate for your needs, here are the steps to follow: 

1. Ask Your Physician for a Letter of Medical Necessity. Request that your VA physician provide a Letter of Medical Necessity that: 

• • Specifies the exact NorthShore products required 

• • States that substitutes are not appropriate, if applicable 

Clear documentation helps the VA Pharmacy understand why a specific product is needed for your health and quality of life. 

2. Provide the letter and the following information to the VA Pharmacy: 

• • Items available at NorthShore.com or via email at b2b@northshorecare.com 

• • SAM.gov CAGE Code: 3XTR6 

• • Vendor Name: Samela, Inc dba NorthShore Care Supply 

• • Alternate Vendors for selected items: Concordance Healthcare & Medlog/Optimal 

If the VA Pharmacy has questions, they can contact NorthShore directly at: 

• • (800) 790-5220 or b2b@northshorecare.com 

• • Pharmacy should email sales tax certificate, if applicable

3. Understand the Approval Process 

Because NorthShore products may be considered non-formulary, a VA Pharmacist must approve the order. In some cases, your physician may need to submit an appeal if the request is initially denied. 

You Don’t Have to Navigate Incontinence Alone 

Managing incontinence after trauma can feel overwhelming, especially while navigating medical care and the VA system. The right protection makes a difference — and so does having someone knowledgeable in your corner. 

If you have questions about product selection, sizing, absorbency levels, or how to request supplies through the VA, our NorthShore Care Experts are here to help. 

These are real people based in the U.S., not bots or scripted agents. With more than 275 years of combined experience, they provide judgment-free guidance seven days a week. Whether you call, chat, text, or email, they will listen and recommend protection designed to help you feel secure and confident again. 

Not sure where to start? You can try up to six free samples — just pay shipping — to find the right fit and absorbency for your needs. A Care Expert can help you select and order samples, or check out the NorthShore Sample Program and take a short quiz to receive personalized recommendations delivered right to your door. 

Because incontinence care is not just about managing leaks. It is about restoring comfort, dignity, and the freedom to focus on life instead of worrying about accidents. 

When you’re ready, call 800-563-0161 or connect online. Support is here whenever you need it. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Can PTSD cause urinary incontinence in veterans?

Yes. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can contribute to urinary incontinence in some veterans. Trauma affects the nervous system, which plays a role in bladder control. PTSD may increase urinary urgency, frequency, or stress-related leakage. Veterans experiencing these symptoms should speak with a healthcare provider to discuss treatment options and supportive products. 

Can a spinal cord injury cause bowel or bladder problems? 

Yes. The spinal cord carries signals between the brain and the bladder and bowel. When the spinal cord is injured or compressed, those signals may be disrupted. This can lead to urinary incontinence, bowel incontinence, or difficulty emptying completely. Severity depends on the location and extent of the injury. 

Can veterans receive incontinence supplies through the VA? 

Many veterans qualify for incontinence supplies through the VA. A physician may need to provide a Letter of Medical Necessity specifying the products required. If a product is considered off-formulary, a VA Pharmacist must approve the order, and an appeal may be required in some cases.

What are the best incontinence products for veterans with heavy leakage?

For heavy urinary or bowel incontinence, high-absorbency adult diapers with tabs are often recommended because they provide an adjustable fit and maximum protection. For moderate leakage, pull-up style underwear may offer a balance of discretion and absorbency. The best product depends on mobility, lifestyle, and leak severity.