Hi all, in my search for a replacement barrier ring since Safe n Simple switched to a different manufacturer who is getting the formula a little different and caused me a leak, I've contacted several companies for free samples. I spoke with a rep from Coloplast today who said that rings actually can cause leaks, and he recommends using a convex bag with an opening that's right up against my stoma and no barrier ring. I said, "But doesn't the ring swell up and hug the stoma, thus preventing seepage under it?" He said it actually can cause a leak by swelling and breaking down. Hmm, I feel like I've been living in Bizarro Ostomy World for the past ten years where I've been using barrier rings with very few leaks. Can anyone vouch for using a no barrier ring system? He's sending me some samples of their bags and rings - they have a new black bag, so I'm stoked to give it a go. Sounds pretty badass (okay, well, he said it actually can resemble a belt or waist pack and not a "bag," and that's why people like it, but I'd rather think of myself as badass with a black bag.) I'm going to try going barrier ringless, but I think I'll wait to do it while I stay in my house. I'm interested to hear other people's experiences.

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HenryM
If I was a relative newbie with an ostomy, I have no doubt that this site would be very helpful to me. The members are quick to respond to questions and issues and they are filled with experience. When I joined, I already had a lifetime with an ostomy, so I just regard it as a place to meet and communicate with other folks similarly situated. Either way, it is a good site.
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