Bedwetting Alarms: Positioning sensors in undergarments

Alarms have different sensors that need to be placed in the undergarments. These sensors need to come in direct contact with the urine as soon as wetting occurs. There are many different ways to position these sensors. Listed below are some of the various methods for positioning sensors:

• Snaps to underwear – the manufacturer recommends wearing two pairs of underwear to avoid direct contact between the skin and the snap and sensor. The underwear needs to be thin for the snaps to work, and sensors cannot be snapped to diapers or pull-ups.
  
  


• Clips to underwear – this type of device can pinch, and its contact point is small and must be positioned carefully. The clip is somewhat cumbersome, bulky, and difficult to use with pull-ups and diapers, especially when connected to a wire.
  
  


• Sewn patch to the underwear – this device requires sewing either the sensor or a Velcro patch in the undergarment. Unless several sensors are purchased, a limited number of undergarments can be used. This sensor will stay in place and can be positioned exactly where you want.
  
  


• Strips or pads that are placed in the underwear – these devices can be used with any type of undergarment including disposable underwear, or pull-ups. Unless there is a pouch in the undergarment, the pad can slip out and not be in direct contact with the urine. These sensors are usually durable, but the strips or pads can be uncomfortable when placed between the legs.
  
  


• Wrapping sensors in toilet paper or placing in a feminine pad – if the sensor is wireless then it can be wrapped in toilet paper or placed in a small cut feminine pad and positioned in the underwear. This will avoid sensor movement and soften the feel. The wet toilet tissue or feminine pads are also easily discarded.
  
  


• Pad and alarm system – these devices require the child to sleep on the pad that contains the large urine sensor. Careful positioning of the pad is required to get the best contact. The child can move the pad either intentionally or by accidental movement during sleep. Securing the pad is sometimes needed to avoid this problem. This can be done with safety pins or careful positioning. The pads are usually very durable. Wearing two pairs of underwear-is a great trick to position sensors and soften the feel of the sensors.

– Dr. D. Preston Smith

Dr. Smith is board certified and he has authored or co-authored many articles, papers, chapters, and books in Urology and Pediatric Urology. His research has been presented throughout the world. Dr. Smith’s dedication to helping children with urologic problems inspired him to establish PottyMD.