Tips For Helping Prevent Leaks with an Ostomy Pouch

( from our friends at STEALTH BELT®)

An ostomy is a surgical procedure that creates an opening, or stoma, in the abdomen for the purpose of diverting the flow of feces or urine. Ostomies can be temporary or permanent and are often necessary for individuals who have had surgery to remove organs including: the colon, rectum, bladder, or others. They may also occur in inflammatory bowel disease patients or other conditions that affect the normal functioning of these organs.

Managing an ostomy, specifically with bag changes and leakage, can be a challenging and overwhelming experience, especially for those who are new to it. However, with the right information, support, and resources, it is possible to learn how to manage an ostomy effectively and live a full, active life. Here are some tips on how to help reduce leaks with an ostomy:

1. Wear a Stealth Belt

Wearing a Stealth Belt® can help to prevent leaks from happening with your ostomy. They are designed to hold the weight of the bag as it fills so that the appliance isn’t reliant on the adhesive to hold up the extra weight of the bag as it fills.

2. Try Different Appliances and Adhesives

You will need to use a bag or pouch to collect the waste from your ostomy. There are different types of bags and pouches available, and it is important to choose the one that fits your needs and preferences. Some factors to consider when choosing an ostomy pouch include the size of your stoma, the type of bag closure, and the bag material.

3. Keep Your Skin Healthy

The skin around your stoma can become irritated or damaged if it is not properly cared for. To keep your skin healthy, it is important to clean the skin around your stoma regularly, protect it from irritation, and change your bag as needed.

4. Empty Your Bag Regularly (air too!):

Normally it is recommended to empty an ostomy bag at about the 1/3rd of the way full point, and doing so will help reduce the chance of leaks. This is especially important when it comes to gas as well, because an appliance that is full of gas will put a lot of additional strain on the adhesive and greatly increase the chances of a leak.

Managing an Ostomy

Managing an ostomy can be a challenging experience, but with the right information, support, and resources, it is possible to live a full and active life. It is important to seek out the support you need, learn about your ostomy and how it works, choose the right supplies, and take care of your skin. By following these tips, you can effectively manage your ostomy and improve your overall health and well-being. To learn the other 4 tips for helping reduce leaks with an ostomy, visit their website.

What is a Stealth Belt?

Stealth Belt® is a company that produces a range of ostomy support belts designed to help people with ostomies manage and conceal their ostomy bags. Their mission is to help all ostomates ‘Go Anywhere and Do Anything’ with an ostomy bag.

Stealth Belt® offers a range of products designed to support, and secure your ostomy bag to make you feel comfortable in all walks of life. They have also been proven to reduce leakage and skin irritation- Study.  These products are made from stretchy, breathable fabric and are designed to be comfortable and discreet. They also offer customizations for things like hernia support, unique colors/prints, double ostomy belts, and more! All products are available for purchase through their website or by phone with their amazing customer service. The company also offers a range of resources and support for people living with ostomies, including blogs, product reviews, and advice on managing an ostomy.

Check out some useful resources from our friends at Stealth Belt®:
5 Tips for Staying Hydrated With Your Ostomy
Showering With A Stoma
Core Strength and Hernia Prevention
10 Ostomy Core Strength Exercises
Ostomy Support Group