I have had an ileostomy for just over 40 years. I really had no issues for a long time, other than a hernia about 20 years ago. The last few years, I have been having trouble with leaks, blowouts, etc. It has gotten much worse each year, and now I can rarely go even 24 hours without changing my pouch. My new normal seems to be twice a day or more. I know I have another hernia, which is part of the issue, and hope to see a doctor when COVID eases up a bit. Another issue is my stoma has shrunk, and the opening is now almost skin level, plus my skin has really become uneven around the stoma. I really don't know what to do. I have tried other appliances, but nothing seems to work any better than what I am using. My stoma sits very low on my right side. Has anyone been through a similar situation? What did you do? I've wondered if I need to have the stoma completely redone and start over. Any advice would be appreciated. Thanks!

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This site has been a blessing for me in learning how to cope with and navigate this journey as an ostomate. I have a colostomy as a result of a perforation in my colon since May of this year. I don't know yet if it will be permanent or reversible. The people on here have provided me with so much advice and information about living with an ostomy that I don't think I could get anywhere else. You all have given me hope and a place to come to for support. I still struggle with acceptance, but know that it will come if I am patient. Patience has never been my strong suit! Also, I love all the humor, although it really pissed me off when I first came on here. Thanks to all of you.