The Discontinuation of In-Store Sales
For many women who relied on picking up Poise Impressa during their regular shopping trips, the disappearance of the product from store shelves was a surprising and frustrating experience. The reason, as confirmed by the manufacturer Poise (Kimberly-Clark), is a strategic business decision to transition the product to an online-only model. A company representative explained several years ago that the move was based on "consumer demand trends" and "marketing issues," which effectively pulled the product from brick-and-mortar retailers nationwide.
This shift means that while you will no longer find the familiar Impressa boxes at your local pharmacy or big-box store, the product itself is not discontinued. It remains available for purchase from various online retailers, including major names like Amazon, Target, and Walmart. However, this has not been a seamless process. The manufacturer has acknowledged supply chain interruptions, particularly concerning the essential Sizing Kits, which have caused temporary shortages even online. When faced with these challenges, the company advised consumers to check online retailer availability or try starting with a size 1 kit if the sample packs were unavailable. The transition to an online-exclusive model highlights a broader trend in the retail market, where niche products or those targeting specific consumer segments are increasingly moving to digital storefronts to streamline logistics and sales efforts.
Understanding Poise Impressa and Stress Urinary Incontinence (SUI)
Poise Impressa Bladder Supports are an internal device, designed to be worn internally like a tampon, to manage Stress Urinary Incontinence (SUI). Unlike traditional absorbent pads that catch leaks after they occur, Impressa works by gently pressing against and lifting the urethra to provide support and help prevent leakage from the start. It's a non-absorbent solution meant for temporary use, typically up to 12 hours at a time, and can be used during daily activities like exercising, running, and even swimming.
SUI is the involuntary loss of urine caused by an increase in pressure on the bladder from physical activities such as coughing, sneezing, laughing, or exercising. It is often a result of weakened pelvic floor muscles or a damaged urethral sphincter, which can occur due to childbirth, aging, or other factors. While Impressa can be an effective solution for some women with SUI, it is not intended for use with urge incontinence, which is characterized by a sudden, strong need to urinate. The discreet and active nature of Impressa made it a popular choice for women seeking an alternative to external absorbent pads, which is why the change in its availability was so noticeable.
Alternatives to Poise Impressa for Managing SUI
For those who prefer not to shop online or are exploring different solutions, a variety of effective alternatives are available for managing SUI. These options range from external products to internal devices, behavioral therapies, and medical treatments. Many of these alternatives can be found in physical stores or through consultation with a healthcare provider.
- Absorbent Products: This includes a wide array of pads, liners, and protective underwear from brands like Poise, Always Discreet, and TENA. Unlike Impressa, these are designed to absorb urine after it leaks and are available in various absorbencies to suit different needs.
- Reusable and Washable Underwear: Many companies, such as Thinx and Cheeky Pants, offer period and incontinence underwear designed with an absorbent, leak-proof core. This eco-friendly and cost-effective option can feel more like regular underwear and is suitable for light to moderate leaks.
- Other Pessaries and Insertable Devices: The Revive Bladder Support is a reusable, over-the-counter vaginal device that supports the bladder to help control leaks, similar in function to Impressa. However, some internal devices may require a proper fitting by a healthcare professional, such as a traditional pessary.
- Pelvic Floor Exercises (Kegels): These exercises strengthen the muscles of the pelvic floor and can significantly improve, and even cure, SUI with consistent and correct practice. Biofeedback techniques can help ensure exercises are performed correctly.
- Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy: A specialized physical therapist can provide comprehensive pelvic floor rehabilitation, often incorporating biofeedback and other therapies to enhance muscle strength and control.
- Topical Estrogen Therapy: For postmenopausal women, low-dose vaginal estrogen can help rejuvenate and tone the tissues around the urethra and vagina, which may alleviate symptoms of incontinence. This is a prescription treatment administered via creams, rings, or patches.
- Surgical Procedures: For more severe cases, surgical options like midurethral slings can be highly effective. These procedures restore the normal position of the urethra to prevent leakage.
Comparison Table: Poise Impressa vs. Common Alternatives
| Feature | Poise Impressa | Absorbent Pad (e.g., Poise Pads) | Internal Pessary (e.g., Revive) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Type | Internal bladder support | External absorbent product | Internal reusable pessary |
| Availability | Online only | In-store and online | Online only |
| Reusability | Disposable | Disposable | Reusable |
| Mechanism | Supports urethra via internal pressure | Absorbs and traps urine | Supports urethra and bladder neck |
| Duration of Use | Up to 12 hours | Varies by absorbency and user needs | Up to one month at a time |
| Ideal For | Active women with SUI | All types and severities of incontinence | Longer-term management, post-childbirth |
| Considerations | Requires sizing kit, potential for discomfort | Can feel bulky, not suitable for swimming | Requires cleaning, may need fitting by HCP |
How to Choose the Right Product for Your Needs
Choosing the best method for managing SUI depends heavily on individual circumstances, lifestyle, and the severity of incontinence. The first step for anyone experiencing incontinence is to consult a healthcare provider to get an accurate diagnosis and rule out any underlying medical conditions. Your doctor can help you understand whether SUI is the primary issue and recommend the most appropriate course of action.
When exploring options, consider the following:
- For mild, activity-induced leaks: Behavioral therapies like Kegel exercises are a great starting point with no cost or side effects. Insertable devices like Poise Impressa or Revive can also be highly effective for discreet, temporary support during physical activity.
- For continuous, moderate leaks: Absorbent pads and liners are a widely accessible and effective option for absorbing leaks throughout the day. For a more environmentally friendly approach, reusable incontinence underwear is an excellent alternative.
- For managing symptoms long-term: Pelvic floor physical therapy offers personalized rehabilitation and can significantly improve outcomes. For postmenopausal women, topical estrogen therapy may be beneficial in strengthening vaginal and urethral tissues.
- When other options are insufficient: Surgical procedures, such as a sling procedure, offer a more permanent solution for persistent and severe SUI. Your doctor will discuss the risks and benefits to determine if this is the right path for you.
It is important to understand that incontinence is a manageable condition and that a combination of approaches may be most effective. By working with a healthcare professional, you can create a personalized plan to minimize leakage and regain confidence. For additional information on stress incontinence and available treatments, you can explore resources from the National Association For Continence (NAFC).
Conclusion: Adapting to the Digital Marketplace
The disappearance of Poise Impressa from store shelves was not an elimination of the product, but rather a strategic shift by the manufacturer to an online-only retail model. For regular users, this change means adapting their purchasing habits to order the product online instead of finding it in physical locations. However, the change has also encouraged many to re-evaluate their options and explore the wide range of alternatives available for managing stress urinary incontinence. From behavioral therapies and reusable products to other internal devices and medical interventions, there are more choices than ever before. The key is to find the right solution that fits your specific needs and lifestyle. For many, this process starts with an informed conversation with a healthcare provider to navigate the best path forward.
