Flying for the First Time with a Stoma: Tips Needed

I've been flying with my ileostomy for 13 years now. I eat light before flying and have had no issues. As for TSA, if you go through the large screener, just let them know you have an ostomy, and they'll have you wipe your hands on the clothing over your stoma and rub your hands with the swabs used for detecting explosives.

As far as using the bathroom on board, it's cramped, but it's a bathroom 😉

I'd love to know how you go 14 hours and only empty once. I can't do that on land, let alone on an airplane!

I understand the anxiety of flying. You need the comfort of knowing you are prepared. This is what I do...

In my purse, I pack a spare kit containing a pouch, flange, wet wipe, and underwear packed inside a ziplock baggie for garbage disposal. I pack a tiny bottle of deodorant drops (M9) and a tiny deodorizer spray (pooh pooh). I wear dark, loose clothes and a long top to cover up if I have a leak and stains. I put a new appliance on with a new unclogged filter system (Coloplast Mio Pouch) that morning to avoid gas buildup inside the bag. I eat low fiber that day (no salad, vegetables, or garlic) so I have less output. Yogurt is good to eat because it reduces odors. Pack your own food if allowed. I go to the washroom just before I board the plane and use extra deodorizer drops. Buy a large water bottle before boarding and sip throughout the flight to stay hydrated! Pack enough supplies in your carry-on for your trip, plus an additional two weeks' supply in case of emergency and you can't go back home as planned. Being prepared lowers anxiety. I fly all the time for 30 years and have had only one small leak that I caught before boarding. You will be fine!