How to Change Your Ostomy Bag: Ostomy Care Tips

Here's how I change my ostomy bag system. I cover how to remove your wafer safely, how to apply a barrier ring and how to get a wafer on. With tips throughout, I hope you enjoy this how to guide!
Written instructions:
www.veganostom...
I've got more ostomy tips here: www.veganostom...
PRODUCTS USED IN THE VIDEO:
Perfect Choice Barrier Ring (BR1001)
Hollister New Image Pouch (#18183): amzn.to/2szm5eH
Hollister New Image Wafer (#14603): amzn.to/2szTg1F
Niltac Adhesive Remover wipes (TR101)/ Sensi-Care: amzn.to/2rpCz5Q
Niltac Adhesive Remover Spray (TR101)/ Sensi-Care: amzn.to/2rpROLT
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Song credits:
Tobu - Life [NoCopyrightSound Release]
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[@merrimcarthur7198]

Eric, I want to thank you for all your videos. You helped me get over my squeamishness regarding ostomies. My son's colon was killing him and we both had a hard time facing up to his eventual surgery. I made a point of learning everything I could from you and other ostomates. Because of that, I was able to advocate that he get an ileostomy....and it saved his life (he was close to dying). You guys/gals are wonderful and you helped save my son's life. I am eternally grateful and wish you all the best.

[@VeganOstomy]

Merri, thank you for educating yourself and for finding me! I'm glad I could help be a part of your son's journey. I hope he's doing better now!

[@lindyworthington1651]

My husband just had diverticulitis surgery and he ended up with an ostomy bag for a while. I was taught in the hospital last week, but he just got home today. I am so glad I found you. He was given Hollister appliances and bag to use. You are a great instructor!

[@VeganOstomy]

+Lindy Worthington Thank you! I hope that his recovery goes smoothly. Let me know if either of you have any questions.

[@micheleb6850]

Thanks good vid for ppl like myself who are new to having a colostomy bag. It's hard to get used to!

[@VeganOstomy]

Thanks, Michele! You WILL get use to it, and eventually forget it's even there. Best of luck to you!

[@doglover8596]

Hey Eric, thanks again. I've had a little leak under my barrier, so I got the thin film like you said in another video, plus I'm putting the powder-followed by spray (I do the powder, then the film) but I want to nip this in the bud before it gets worse, so I wanted to use a ring; but wasn't sure where to put it, and once again "SUPER VEGAN OSTOMY" comes to the rescue. I've learned more from your than I did my nurse in the hospital. Have a happy holiday.

[@VeganOstomy]

+Dog Lover That's great! Thanks for starting my day off on a positive note!

[@bereal6590]

Ur a great guy Eric.... living it real and really helping people 😆😆

[@judymarcucella3750]

Your videos have really helped me and make me less afraid to tackle this new phase of my life. Thank you!

[@VeganOstomy]

Thanks for watching, Judy! I wish you all the best.

[@marlenestenach2447]

Great video we are just learning my husbands temporary Ostomy. It's amazing all that is involved. He had three surgeries in ten days and spent 18 days in the hospital.at least two more surgeries to go. It is so helpful for us to see videos like yours! Bless you and thank you!:)

[@VeganOstomy]

Marlene Stenach Sounds like he's been through a LOT lately! I wish you two all the best, and THANK YOU for your kind words.

[@roswytube]

Great demonstration. Glad it is on video, allows me to replay as often as I want. This is a big help for our family as we try to help our daughter with her new ostomy. Thanks once again for another informative and helpful video.

[@VeganOstomy]

+roswytube Glad it's helpful!

[@cathalodiubhain5739]

I always use the barrier rings, I find if I dont I have to change my bag more often.. Very informative video... Thanks

[@katesteele3607]

Thank you. I get my ileostomy soon and I’ve been so scared! I subscribed and appreciate you so much doing this! This helped calm my nerves!

[@VeganOstomy]

Best of luck, Kate! It will get easier after you gain more experience too. You're going to do great 😊😊

[@laurasoftheart]

Thanks for these videos for us newbies! I love that bags trick! I never would have thought of it.

[@VeganOstomy]

We were all newbies once ;) Glad you enjoy the videos!

[@martinebegin8581]

Hi Eric. I just love your videos. They are so informative. My husband has got an ileostomy 3 months ago and whenever we’re not sure about something, or we have a problem, 90% of the time we find the answers in your videos. You really help stomates and their caregivers get confident and positive about their new life. Merci beaucoup.

[@VeganOstomy]

Thanks, Martine! Have a wonderful day!

[@sandyhill1521]

Amazing teaching video! Thank you! I love the plastic bag trick!

[@VeganOstomy]

I appreciate that 😊 Thanks for watching.

[@ronsternberg466]

thanks, much appreciated. having my ostomy surgery in about a month, and your video helps take away some of the mystery and the anxiety.

[@VeganOstomy]

+Ron Sternberg Hope your recovery has gone well, Ron! Wishing you all the best. Eric

[@johnjake1840]

Hope all went well.it sucks.hope u r ok.

[@arsinowey66]

Thank you for the little pro tips throughout your video !! I care for my father and he's had a colostomy for 12 years,nobody taught him how to correctly apply everything and when my mother passed,I had no idea how to help him. My mother took care of all of that for him,he had never changed his own appliance !! On top of everything else,he has a hernia in his stoma,so that complicates things as well !! But I wanted to say thank you again,very nice tips !!

[@VeganOstomy]

+Tiffany Crouse You are very welcome! Is there any way of getting in touch with a stoma nurse who can help you? Hernias require special attention, and you might find it helpful to schedule an appointment with a nurse who can give you some pointers.

[@arsinowey66]

I'm having him suggest a stoma nurse to his Doctor at his next visit. . .thank you

[@francisoliva692]

Thank you so much Mr. Vegan man. Am learning so much from ur videos.

[@patriciadavis1393]

I wanna thank you for your contents and all the amazing information you provide

[@bkrybabe]

Thank you so much for your instructional videos. I have had my illiostomy since May. I did struggle with leaks for a while, it was,so frustrating, esp at work. I learned a lot from you, and when I had a visit with my Ostomy nurse she said I was very well informed and I have your videos the credit. So thank you so much.June S.

[@essieboulton6738]

Thank you. Very informative.

[@VeganOstomy]

You're very welcome 👋😊

[@sabrinasky]

Thank You So much, you made a lovely, clear and very educational video, and your voice is such easy listening, I found your voice so very calming as well.

[@VeganOstomy]

+Jan Butler Thanks you. That made my day!

[@OscarOmarPosadaSanchez]

Thank you very much for your teachings, 🫶🏽👍🏾✅👏🏾🙌🏾 greetings from Mexico

[@katiekellen4736]

Very helpful

[@marymarymary9287]

What an awesome clip to watch. Thank you for sharing, it helped so so much!

[@VeganOstomy]

Glad it was helpful!

[@GeorgeRaphaelHarriss]

Thanks for all the videos! I just had a temporary colostomy operation done about 3 1/2 weeks ago because I have this Fistula that needs to heal. So we had to give the area a break so it didn't get reinfected. On top of that, I had constipation problems from the painkillers and such. It's been a rough year! This was my 6th surgery and not the last! Now, I'm still trying to recover because I experienced something called Mucocutaneous Separation where some of my skin became detached from the stoma. It looks as if stitches came apart or something. So now there's this gap between my skin and the stoma. I was just told by the nurse to fill it with the powder, cover it with barrier rings, and it will heal at some point. However, I had another issue with constipation again which opened the gap wider while it was trying to heal back. I'm just afraid it won't close up all the way and will continue to be sore or cause a stinging sensation around my stoma. Also, my stoma doesn't stick out. It's more flat. So I think that causes some of the output to leak on the powder and wash it away. Do you have any tips on this to help the healing process any further? I haven't seen too much information or any videos on the internet about this, so other than what the nurse told me, I don't have much else to go on. Again, thanks for all the videos and any other suggestions you have! These videos are immensely helpful! :)

[@VeganOstomy]

Hey George. Wow, you have been through a lot! I honestly don't have any advice, but to listen to what your nurses tell you - they are the wound experts, and I've had no experience with the stoma separation (although I know others who've had the same trouble). For flush or retracted stomas, the general recommendation is to use a convex appliance, but I would be really hesitant so suggest that with the problem you're currently having. Your stoma nurse should be the only one able to assess your situation properly. I wish you the best! Sometimes having a temporary ostomy is more difficult than having a permanent one, but you'll get through it!

[@GeorgeRaphaelHarriss]

I was wondering about the convex appliance also. Hopefully this powder will work and everything will heal soon. It's been a big life changer. Your videos are very helpful though. Thanks again sir! I appreciate it.

[@VeganOstomy]

+George Harris Good luck, and let me know how things go!

[@GeorgeRaphaelHarriss]

Will do!

[@chaetophractus0301]

Thank you Eric! Your videos are really helpful. I have my ostomy a month ago and I am still struggling with the changes, sometimes it works and sometimes doesn't. I am frustrated, but I hope that I will get used to it eventually. Still, I need some time to go back to work because I am afraid to have leaks

[@VeganOstomy]

It is important to find consistency with your appliance. It may be helpful to visit a stoma nurse so they can see how you put your ostomy wafer on - they may be able to spot things that can be improved upon or even help to recommend products that might work better. In some cases, using a convex appliance can work to prevent leaks, but it usually depends on the stoma. In the first month, I also still had issues - it took some time and experimentation before things were really consistent and predictable. So, it often comes with experience. Best of luck!

[@sl1173]

Thank you, Eric, for this video. it was very helpful.

[@recreate3204]

And here I thought I was the only one who creased the opening of my bag haha. Nice video.

[@VeganOstomy]

Hehe, I can't imagine using these bags without doing that! Thanks for watching.

[@recreate3204]

I agree haha. It's a pain to open without doing so.

[@n1iwr]

OMG!!!! I've been struggling with these Hollister outlet openings for weeks!!! Thanks for the awesome tip!!!! Another example of, Why didn't I think of that!!! Great video!! Thanks for your help during these first few weeks after my ileostomy surgery!!!

[@VeganOstomy]

+Sandy Brooks Ha! Well at least you know now! It really is annoying to have to deal with those outlets the way they are.

[@johnmesick9776]

Outstanding educational video. Thank you, mp

[@VeganOstomy]

+John Mesick Thanks for watching!

[@tdevaughan]

Great video. Very helpful.

[@VeganOstomy]

Glad it was helpful! Thanks for watching.

[@tdevaughan]

@VeganOstomy I just went back to an ileostomy again. Just curious on average how long do you hold down heat? And does the hollister wagee you use require zero holding?

[@VeganOstomy]

@@tdevaughan The longer, the better. This applies to all wafers, since the adhesives used are pressure and heat sensitive. What I've been doing more recently to help get a better seal is to get an empty toilet paper roll. I put it over the stoma (so the stoma is in the center of the hole) and I'll hold that down for about 30 seconds or so. This really helps to get the adhesive to bond where it's needed most. But I will also follow up with holding the borders of the wafer with my hand to make sure that sticks well, too.

[@tdevaughan]

@@VeganOstomy Thanks. I'll give thst a try.

[@aprilfarrington7159]

Hi How You Doing Thank You For Showing People Like Myself & These Of Us That Wears A Ostomy Bags

[@VeganOstomy]

Thank you April Farrington ! Hope you found the video entertaining (and educational) =)

[@aprilfarrington7159]

To Be Honest With You I Learned A lot From You I Wear A Ostomy Bag As Well On How To Change It The Right Way Thank You For Your Help

[@VeganOstomy]

April Farrington I'm so glad to hear that! Thank you.

[@Chevy-hw6lw]

Good thorough vid! Thank you!

[@VeganOstomy]

Glad you liked it! :)

[@deeditler3890]

Great video. Thanks for sharing.

[@VeganOstomy]

Thank you for the praise :)

[@catherinechristie1819]

What a fab video thanks

[@VeganOstomy]

Thank you :)

[@chrissimmons9383]

1)When you install the bag, I noticed you put an additional piece of tissue paper tucked in, just under the stoma area. Is that just to make any falling poop clean up easier? 2) Once you've removed your old bag I see you wet some tissue type thing and clean your skin with just water... what is the tissue you use? Is that gauze? I've yet to change my bag, so I'm trying to prepare the best I can and purchase adequate supplies. Thanks

[@VeganOstomy]

+Chris Simmons Hey Chris. I only use gauze, not toilet paper so that's what you're seeing. Yes, I tuck some in so that it makes cleanup easier. I use wet gauze to clean the area because : a) it doesn't break apart or stick to my stoma like tissue would. b) my insurance covers gauze but not toilet paper c) it's easier to travel with gauze and keep them in my emergency kit. D) it absorbs water better than toilet paper. Let me know if you've got any other question.

[@Amy-he6wf]

Hi eric thankyou again im slowly but surely watching everyone of your videos as i say it's really early days for my partner yet and he is still coming to terms with it but your videos are a massive help and i absolutely love your confidence (no reason not to be) but it has knocked my partners a little but things take time and time is a good healer as they say!! Can i ask you may of said in one of your videos but iv not seen it, how did you end up with your stoma? Thanks again all my love to all your family. From Amy in Liverpool UK

[@nailladevraj8803]

Thanks, good video

[@VeganOstomy]

Thank you Nailla Devraj!

[@LucysLifeInTheBabyAliveWorld]

Yesterday I almost completely independently changed my appliance, but my mom had to help me cut my flange because the scissors were clearly made for left handed people and I also put my belt on backwards.

[@VeganOstomy]

That's still a wonderful first step 👏 Get a new pair of scissors and try again 👍

[@LucysLifeInTheBabyAliveWorld]

@@VeganOstomy I will, it's all about baby steps.

[@da4]

Thanks for this

[@VeganOstomy]

My pleasure 😀

[@kathyclausen6790]

My husband is going to have his colon removed May17 and will have a bag the rest of his life was wondering on average if you could tell us how many times a week you have to change the appliance and on average how many times a day you have to empty it. Thanks we are 66 and this is very traumatic just thinking about this my husband has been suffering with severe ulcertive colitis for 2 years

[@VeganOstomy]

+Kathy Clausen I can understand what you two must be going through. I'm sure that he'll feel so much better after the surgery. I usually change my bag every three or four days, but I'm able to get up to 6 days when I can't change it on schedule. I empty about 7 to 9 times a day, but it really depends on how much I'm eating. Everyone is a little different, but the first year will be when his body will be adapting and things will become more predictable and consistent. I wish him the best of luck. Please feel free to contact me if you have any other questions. I also have a lot of information on my website.

[@kathyclausen6790]

Thank yo so much I was diagnosed with kidney cancer last year and had to have part of my kidney removed all I do is cry I just feel I just feel so overwhelmed with what we are about to go thru. I will keep watching for updates Thank you

[@VeganOstomy]

+Kathy Clausen Take it one day at a time. I went from being bedridden for months to doing a 5km hike about a month after my ostomy surgery. I believe that things can only get better for you both.

[@kathyclausen6790]

Thank you so much for the words of encouragement we live in a small country town and We dont know anybody to talk to so watching your videos really help we have to travel 3 hours to have the surgery .

[@kathyclausen6790]

Just wondered if you know anything about removing the rectum when removing your colon my husband will have to have his removed as it is full of ulcers we have been reading some on people that have a lot of problems there after it is removed like ti is very painful

[@MRSABSOLUTELY61]

i can not tell the sticky one from the remover package aparted

[@da7715]

Great video. What are your thoughts on cutting the hole to accommodate sore skin around the stoma? I was always told not to stick the wafer to sore skin but this does not help me. I find that the sore skin gets bigger as a consequence. Any suggestions greatly appreciated

[@VeganOstomy]

Hey there. When I have sore or damaged skin around the stoma, I tend to use a barrier ring temporarily just to give my skin some time to heal: kzbin.info/www/bejne/oYfFc2qmgquij8k But other than that, I don't purposely make the hole larger, as I find it can cause more problems for my skin.

[@da7715]

@@VeganOstomy thanks ever so much for your response. 2 years in and still battling very raw skin. I will use a close fitting barrier ring and see if that helps. Much appreciated 👍

[@VeganOstomy]

@@da7715 Good luck! 2 years is a long time. I hope it resolves quickly!

[@umashankar-pk2jd]

Thank you brother

[@melodylogan5732]

Love your videos, thank you so much! Question. Do you use barrier wipes? I just received an ileostomy 7 weeks ago, and thought it was just part of the process.

[@VeganOstomy]

Thanks Melody. I don't use barrier wipes, and because I use extended wear wafers, barrier wipes are not recommended for me. As a rule, don't use more products than you need :)

[@alicedonatelli6318]

HI ERIC. I AM BRAND NEW ON HOW TO PT ON MY BAG. WHEN I FIRST TRIED I THINK I HAD MORE TAPE ON ME THAN THE STORE. HOW CAN I TAKE A SHOWER? DO I HAVE TO COVER THE STOMA? OR JST GO IN WTH THE STOMA SHOWING. PLEASE HELP ME. I LIVE A LONEY AND THERE IS NO ONE HERE TO HELP ME. THE NURSE COMES ONCE A WEEK. BUT SHE GOSE SO FAST I CAN'T KEEP UP WITH HER. I LOVE YOUR VIDEO. ALICE

[@VeganOstomy]

Hi Alice, I do have a video about showering, but in general you don't have to worry because our appliance is designed to be waterproof. Some people will remove their bag while showering. It's a personal preference and soap and water won't hurt it. Just be aware that some showering products, especially conditioner, may cause your wafer not to stick very well. Rinse the area well. Good luck!

[@freddielugo1486]

Great vid my friend!!!

[@VeganOstomy]

Thanks freddie lugo ! I appreciate the support.

[@germaniedorsainvil4604]

Is it normal to use the bag and the next week and find out moving ur bowels ?

[@VeganOstomy]

+Germanie Dorsainvil Hi Germaine, can you rephrase that question?

[@CityGrlwKidz]

quick question i have a resident whos bag bursts all the time ..She uses a previous made bag with with a barrier ring attached to the bag..I clean the area with her barrier cleansing wipes and then I try to flatten the sticky paper like stuff that sticks to the skin .. I am pretty confident I change it correctly but why does it break or burst all the time, also apply a sticky paste called adapt or adept..

[@VeganOstomy]

Hi Amy. Is the bag bursting because it's full or is leaking when there's not a lot in it? Ideally, bags should be emptied before they get about 1/3 full - letting it go past that could add extra weight and strain to the wafer.

[@kimmycase3355]

We have been using baby wipes which helps but I notic the poo gets under the ring on the wafer but don't leak out

[@VeganOstomy]

+kimmy case That shouldn't happen often. If it does then he may need to find a more suitable appliance or supplies. If that happens, then there's a chance that his skin may become raw or damaged by the output over time.

[@kimmycase3355]

My husband stoma is flush with the skin and I find that there is always dried poop close to his stoma which is hard to get off when changing his bag

[@VeganOstomy]

+kimmy case I use gauze that has been moistened to remove stool from my skin. It's stronger than toilet paper and won't tear apart.

[@fasnuf]

Hope you see this. Today, my skin pulled away from my ostomy and was bleeding slightly exposing some of my undersign, there was no leaking. My surgeon said there wasnt much he could do unless I was in pain but Im concerned about further erosion and also completely covering the wounded area with my wafer. I asked about putting stoma powder on it but he said no but maybe use paste. I saw you use a barrier ring and thought that might protect it from erosion until it scabbed over. Do you think I can safely try the barrier ring? I know you're not a doctor and dont hold you responsible for your opinion and dont take it as medical advice. Thank you , Mark

[@VeganOstomy]

Mark, I'm sorry that's happened to you. Was your stoma bleeding or the skin under your water? An adhesive remover could help in the future. Barrier rings are fairly gentle on the skin, but it may not stick well if your skin is very weepy. How much area was damaged?

[@MRSABSOLUTELY61]

always the top pop open i mess close all the time but it still come open and spill everywhere

[@VeganOstomy]

+MRSABSOLUTELY61 Do you have the exact item number of the bag and wafer you use? Some products need to be closed a specific way or they will come apart.

[@francisoliva692]

Am really confused! My home health nurse is teaching me on how 2 measure my wafer 2 stoma. I don't know what is going on but the day after am changing my pouch & there poop around stoma & getting stuck. I then have 2 spend more time cleaning wafer ring bcuz of the poop. What's going on or is it normal? Pls. Help.

[@VeganOstomy]

As long as you aren't having leaks or skin problems, it's normal for some poop to stay around the stoma. It sounds like "pancaking" which is a common problem and I have another video for that. I hope that helps.

[@chrisbrownrigg1]

Can I ask do these need changing every day and night or is it as and When. I am Just interested I myself don't have one or know anyone to ask who has

[@VeganOstomy]

+Christine Brownrigg Thanks for asking. I change mine usually every 3-5 days. Some people need to/want to change theirs daily and others may get a week or more before they need to.

[@chrisbrownrigg1]

Vegan Ostomy Oh wow that's quite good that it would last so long Thank you for your reply. I became interested in these videos as I was diagnosed with ulcerative colitis about 8yes ago and the possibility in the future as a cure would be to have one of these fitted. Thankfully I didn't need one but I'm still curious.

[@VeganOstomy]

+Christine Brownrigg I appreciate your curiosity 😀😀

[@OneMystified]

Thank you so much for the demo, is it possible to shower with it on of does it not stay adhered? How do you clean it after emptying it to remove odours?

[@VeganOstomy]

Hi Alan, I always shower with my ostomy appliance on and it's usually not a problem. In fact, I think the heat of the shower helps the adhesive to bond better. After emptying my appliance, there's no need to clean the inside of it unless you want to - cleaning the tail or outlet end of the bag is what's important. I do use a pouch deodorant called M9 from Hollister which works really well for eliminating odors from the bag.

[@OneMystified]

@@VeganOstomy Thank you for your reply, much appreciated.

[@donnahooper5402]

@@VeganOstomy M9 drops changed my life. I don't go anywhere without them.

[@walkinglibrarian]

Hi I don't have an ostomy but I do have Crohn's and am learning as much as I can to prepare me for the future. Why do some ppl but the barrier ring on the actual stoma and some put it on the wafer? Does one way work better?

[@VeganOstomy]

With applying barrier rings, sometimes it's a personal preference and sometimes it's a matter of what makes sense for the user. An active stoma might be problematic for someone who puts the barrier ring on first, since the ring may become wet or soiled before they put the wafer over it. And for others, it's a matter of what method is easier to line everything up. My preferece is to put the barrier ring on the wafer because then it's a single step to apply it onto my skin.

[@MRSABSOLUTELY61]

i am vey new to this only 2 months now and i am so ashame

[@francisoliva692]

Why, is it that wafer/ring causes skin 2 sting making it difficult 2 walk or even enjoy my day.

[@VeganOstomy]

It shouldn't. Check in with your nurse as you might have a skin reaction to certain products and may need to find something that works better for you. Good luck! 👍

[@MRSABSOLUTELY61]

how to fix my two piece keep opening and shit is everywhere every time i get up to go empty it how to stop this i am so ashame when it happen in front of people please help

[@VeganOstomy]

+MRSABSOLUTELY61 I'm sorry that's happening. When you say it keeps opening, do you mean the bag separates from the wafer or the bottom outlet opens up?

[@GraceLeeFitness]

What is your flange size??? Do you need to change your flange size as your stoma shrinks?

[@VeganOstomy]

The wafer I'm using now has a flange size of 57mm with a cut-to-fit size up to 44mm. Because my stoma doesn't get bigger than 32mm, it's a very good size for me. Most of them allow for many size variations. Most people out of surgery will likely be given flanges that are larger than what they need (it's easier for the hospital to carry the largest size rather than multiple sizes, I would imagine). So you may need to size down if it's huge.

[@dianneirwin1907]

You could say what an erosion looks like I've been trying to learn to watch when I change tell the difference but I wish you could show me that

[@VeganOstomy]

Hello Dianne. Yes, that's a great point. I do show what erosion can look like in this video, which dives into when to change an appliance: kzbin.info/www/bejne/jIaknYxpqrRnl6c Putting to much in into the appliance change video would have taken it off track. I hope that helps. 😊

[@LucysLifeInTheBabyAliveWorld]

Hey, I've got a question about ostomy flanges I hope you'll be able to answer, what can I do to fix the problem of my flange bending when I sit because I'm overweight? Also what can I do to fix the psychological problems my ostomy is causing me to experience.... Because my ostomy contributes *A LOT* to my depression, and I'm just one step away from getting my ostomy reversed :'(

[@VeganOstomy]

The flange bending when you sit might require you to try a different size wafer (up or down), experiment with a one piece system, go with something more flexible like the Coloplast Sensura mio, or maybe even try a support band/stoma guard. Excess weight can make things more difficult, so if there's an opportunity to lose some weight, it will benefit you in many ways. Talk to your family doctor about scheduling an appointment to speak with a therapist who can help with both your depression and your feelings about your ostomy. But if you're having trouble with your ostomy, definitely work with a stoma nurse to troubleshoot these issues. Once they are solved, I think you'll feel a lot better. Good luck!

[@LucysLifeInTheBabyAliveWorld]

@@VeganOstomy I've tried one piece systems, but for some weird reason every time I use pouches other than what I normally use, they cause pancaking.... *I know.....weird, right?* I'll try your other suggestions though, thank you🙂

[@VeganOstomy]

If pancaking happens and you're using a filtered bag, try this : cover the filter with a sticker and allow a little bit of air in your bag. Pancaking is often caused by a vacuum effect in the bag, and doing these two steps can significantly help.

[@FrvrCwbyF]

I was wondering. Would you or have you just used a tad bit of lotion around the skin of the stoma?

[@VeganOstomy]

That's not recommended, as lotions will often interfere with the wafer's adhesion. I did use calamine lotion a few times, under recommendation of my stoma nurse, to heal some irritation, but it was a nightmare to manage and I could come up with a few alternatives if I had the same problem. Are you asking for any particular reason?

[@FrvrCwbyF]

Thanks for the quick reply. And I was just wondering since I was thinking about trying it out tomorrow when I change my bag. I don't have any irritation on my skin so far after having my illeostomy for 3 weeks, but like I said, I was just gonna try it out to keep the skin healthy under the wafer.

[@VeganOstomy]

FrvrCwbyF "less is more" is what stoma nurses like to say. =)

[@LucysLifeInTheBabyAliveWorld]

Pray tell, is reversal an option for people with a neurogenic bowel due to spina bifida or hydrocephalus? **both in my case*,* because my mom is now refusing to help me **[basically a beginner even after 5½ years]** change my appliance ever again, and despite 9 pouches still being a lot since I only go through 1 a week... potentially none if it doesn't rip, I'm being denied the rights to put on a fresh pouch.... My stupid neurologically disabled brain won't let me retain the information on how to change it no matter how many times I've seen my mom do it, and I just can't live like this anymore... Plus I feel oppressed having to regulate my diet just to prevent obstructions or diarrhea, I can't go swimming or take bath anymore without my severe anxiety causing me to be paranoid about leakage afterwards, I can't wear the clothes that I want anymore because people will point out when my pouch is showing because they think it's so gross and scary, I'm distracted from completing schoolwork when i have to empty my pouch, and overall I just cost my mom too much money from supplies alone. As bad as it sounds, I just can't live to see another day with the stupid bag!

[@michelebreen1705]

What bags do u use now

[@VeganOstomy]

Been using Hollister 2pc bags for many years, and will alternate between them and the Hollister 1pc. With the 1pc, I'm getting well over a week of wear with no issues. I stopped using filters on the bag.

[@lenlabato7356]

Do you change the wafer every time you change your bag?

[@VeganOstomy]

I generally do, yes. Since my wafer tends to last a while (often more than a week), it's just easier to replace the bag since I find that they don't tend to last much longer than that before they start to have problems.

[@lenlabato7356]

@@VeganOstomy Thank you for the fast reply I only came out of the hospital yesterday after a complete colon removal and a five hour surgery and five days in the hospital I appreciate knowing you don’t have to be super perfect on everything

[@VeganOstomy]

You'll learn what works best for you, so hopefully you aren't feeling overwhelmed. Best of luck with your recovery 👍

[@littlelotta7014]

In 30 years I've never used anything but toilet paper to wipe around the stoma. When things don't stick, there's never any residue anyway. I don't use anything, and yet the wafers erode or seem to melt away prior to even trying to remove them. I have to change every 3 days and insurance doesn't think I need enough wafers to do that. So I have to buy the extra out of my pocket.

[@VeganOstomy]

+little lotta Are you using extended wear wafers?

[@cheeesefunnel]

why not convert to a BCIR internal pouch? unless u have chronns

[@VeganOstomy]

I do have Crohn's. But BCIR, like other internal pouches, come with their own set of risks. I'm quite happy with the way things are right now (zero problems).

[@cheeesefunnel]

Vegan Ostomy ok nice..well what risks? im having bcir done next week..ev one i facebooked says they love it and only get pouchitis once in a while

[@VeganOstomy]

+cheesefunnel Take a look at the BCIR clinical trials: bcir.com/learn-more/clinical-studies.dot No surgery is 100% risk free, but that's why we have to weigh benefits to risks. I also know a few people who've had it and they are doing great. I wish you all the best next week! Let me know how things work out for you.

[@cheeesefunnel]

Vegan Ostomy thanks! yeah none are perfect..but id rather the bcir over ostomy..not sure the feeling of a sewed up rectum but i guess i will find out

[@VeganOstomy]

+cheesefunnel You'll adjust 😉

[@WhoStew]

This is what my mom has IHave no idea how to do this she might be home from the hospital

[@VeganOstomy]

See if the hospital is able to recommend a stoma nurse to help, if she hasn't received instructions at the hospital already. It can seem overwhelming, but it becomes easier to manage with just a little experience. Good luck to you both!

[@MRSABSOLUTELY61]

18178/14206/7806 hollister/uni-solve adhesive-skin402300 potective wipes7917

[@VeganOstomy]

+MRSABSOLUTELY61 OK, the Hollister system you use is very similar to the one I use. The pouch and wafer should snap together like a Tupperware container. After you have changed your appliance, give the pouch a gentle tug to see if it's properly secured. If it comes off easily, then it hasn't been snapped together correctly. Does it come apart when your bag is full? If so, you either need to empty it sooner or look at accessories that will give you better support. If you are still having trouble with that, consider using a one-piece system or another brand to see if that helps.

[@janetlambert371]

👍

[@MRSABSOLUTELY61]

where the bag at

[@VeganOstomy]

+MRSABSOLUTELY61 Sorry? Do you mean what ostony bag am I using?

[@bcazof]

Your's is colostomy or lleostomy?

[@VeganOstomy]

Ileostomy. These instructions would work for a colostomy as well.

[@MRSABSOLUTELY61]

i do nott have trash bags with my ostomy bags

[@VeganOstomy]

+MRSABSOLUTELY61 I understand. Some manufactures don't include disposal bags but you can use pretty much any kind of bag to collect output and solid supplies, just make sure it's thick and contains odors. Some people like to use dog poop disposable bags.

[@vampdonna]

I’m just seeing this and learning this. I have to change my moms and it’s difficult. I have a question. What’s the best way to put on a one piece stoma bag on my mom laying down* standing or sitting up. ??? Help !! Please 🥺🥺🥺

[@VeganOstomy]

I don't care for someone with a stoma, so I don't know the particulars of your situation. However, it's usually recommended that you be standing when doing an appliance change because if you are laying down or sitting when you put the appliance on, your skin will stretch when you stand up and that might cause the wafer to pull and damage the skin. Best of luck to you and your mom. If you can get help from a stoma nurse, I think it might be worth looking into that option.

[@vampdonna]

@@VeganOstomy ok thank you so so much 🥲🙏🏻💗