Introducing our new series: Wee Answer Wednesday with Men’s Liberty
There are no stupid questions …
We get hundreds of calls each week from men, caregivers and doctors who have questions. Some of them we expect, some are totally out of left field. And I’ll bet that for every man who calls and asks a question, there are a dozen more that aren’t comfortable asking. So here are the answers to some of our most popular questions. We’ll publish the answers to additional questions every week so let us know what you’re curious about! Leave a comment, tweet, facebook or email us. Your question may be featured in our next blog!
1. Is it a condom catheter? Does it work like a Foley catheter?
Short answer – No. Men’s Liberty is NOT a condom or Foley catheter. It does not go inside the body at all, unlike Foley catheters. Condom catheters are exactly what their name sounds like – a condom that men glue to their anatomy and hook up to a leg or bedside bag. What they don’t mention in that description is that when men wear a condom catheter their anatomy soaks in urine ALL DAY. That can lead to skin breakdown and urinary tract infections. The other dirty little secret is that condom catheters are pretty easy to dislodge meaning you could have an accident anytime, anywhere. Imagine living like that…
Men’s Liberty is the healthier alternative because it only attaches to the tip of the anatomy, directs all urine immediately away from the body and won’t pop off! It keeps you clean and dry, all day, every day. That’s freedom.
2. Can you wear shorts?
Absolutely! Men’s Liberty is designed to be worn with the small pouch resting against the thigh. It has a small pouch which you can connect to a leg bag or not – whatever you prefer!
3. How does it stay on?
Men’s Liberty is made of a material called hydrocolloid. This is a medical grade adhesive so it will stick to the head of the penis. This adhesive is gentle and skin-friendly. It does not contain any latex and is hypoallergenic. It’s a translucent beige color normally and turns milky white as it absorbs moisture and is ready to be removed.
4. Does it work for retracted anatomy?
Yes! Unlike condom catheters which can pop off when the anatomy retracts, Men’s Liberty will stay on men with large, small, circumcised, uncircumcised and retracted anatomy.
5. Do you have to have an erection to put it on?
No, Men’s Liberty can be applied to either an erect or flaccid penis. Hydrocolloid is a flexible material that will stretch with the skin as it changes position.
6. How much does it cost? Will Insurance cover it?
Most patients receive Men’s Liberty for little to no out of pocket cost. It is covered by Medicare, most state Medicaids, VA/TriCare, Worker’s Compensation and most private insurances.
7. Will it work if I’m uncircumcised?
Yes! Men’s Liberty works for uncircumcised men. In order to apply, an uncircumcised man will need to pull the foreskin back, and then apply as normal. Once application is complete, just make sure to return your foreskin to its normal forward position over the seal!
8. Will I get a UTI? What is a UTI?
A UTI is a urinary tract infection. It is frequently caused by Foley (indwelling) catheters and condom catheters. Some symptoms of urinary tract infections include: a frequent urge to urinate, accompanied by pain or burning on urination, cloudy or strong smelling urine and/or fever. UTIs are usually treated with antibiotics. However, if left untreated a UTI can turn into a secondary infection requiring hospitalization.
In fact, with over 1 million units sold, there has not been a single reported adverse event caused by Men’s Liberty including urinary tract infections and serious skin injuries.
9. Can I sleep with it on? Can I shower with it on?
Yes to both! The Men’s Liberty is designed to be worn 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The more it is exposed to moisture (for example in the bath, shower or swimming pool), the weaker the seal. We recommend changing your Men’s Liberty each day after your shower or bath.
10. Will it set off the alarms at the airport?
No, Men’s Liberty won’t set off any alarms. In fact, there is no metal anywhere in the device or the packaging. Nothing in the device will set off alarms or raise concerns if you wanted to take your devices in your carry-on luggage. In fact, we always recommend carrying a few extra with you when you travel. You never know when your plans will be delayed or hit a snag. The last thing you want to be worrying about then is your incontinence.
Do you other questions about Men’s Liberty you would like us to answer? Let us know and we will include them in next week’s column!