New to This Stoma

Hi, I had a stoma fitted a week ago, and I'm really struggling. I can't stand all the work involved, and I cannot stop leaks. Anyone got any tips? I wake up in the night, and the bag has leaked, so I have to change it again. It's like I'm chained to the toilet, so I must be doing something wrong. Any help appreciated.

Ileostomy or colostomy? Do you use open or closed bags? Flange extenders will help if you are not using them. You must be dry before you put on a new kit. Often, the problem is what and when you eat. These are just a few things to check.

I know it can be hard. I'm 6 months post-op due to an infection in my colon. I really struggled too. But I went to my local ostomy clinic, and they really helped me there. This site is a wealth of information, and I don't know if you use TikTok, but I follow several ostomates there, and you can learn a lot from them as well.

Welcome to the group! Everyone's glad to help if you provide more details.

When Hubz was discharged from the hospital, we both felt very unprepared and found quite a few helpful videos on YouTube until we got personalized help from the ostomy nurse.

Hang in there. It'll get better.

Many people struggle in the beginning. I promise it gets better. Eventually, the bag will be second nature. First, you must get a system that works for you. Whatever you are doing clearly doesn't work.

I see you are in England, so I know you should have an ostomy nurse available to you. They will be able to help you.

In general, make sure the skin is clean and very dry before placing the bag. Do not use any oils or lotions on the skin. I recommend using only water to clean the area until you have mastered the process. Use a barrier ring (a malleable ring that goes around the stoma underneath the bag to help seal and prevent leaks).

Almost all other suggestions we could give are unique to the type of stoma or your individual situation.

If you want more suggestions, let us know the type of ostomy, how far it sticks out, if there are defects in the skin, scars, or skin folds that interfere with the appliance, and any observations about where it leaks, etc., that might help pinpoint your problems.

Living with Your Ostomy | Hollister

Hi Goldstar, Welcome. We've all been where you are, but it does get better. Finding the system (combination of products) that works for you is key. It is a trial-and-error process and takes some patience. Susan has given you good advice. All the product makers will send you free samples to try. Don't stay with something that isn't working. Make sure your skin is completely clean and dry before applying a barrier ring. If you can, warm the wafer of the appliance (the part that touches your skin after removing the paper strip) with a blow dryer for 30 seconds before applying it on top of the ring. Then, hold the whole thing in place with your hand for a couple of minutes. As you are in England, you have access to Salts brand, which IMO makes the best barrier rings. Get some aloe rings from them and give them a try. Hang in there.

Terry

Try setting an alarm every couple of hours and emptying before you have a leak. You'll have to adjust your lifestyle somewhat to having an ostomy, but being miserable living with one isn't necessary.

G-Day Goldstar,

You have been given good advice; now go see your stoma nurse ASAP and get some help.

Regards, IGGIE

Welcome G

It is difficult at the start, but you will get there. Track down the stoma nurse; they are there to guide you.

Very good advice from all on here. I also cut little slits on the flange so this makes the flange stick better to the shape of your tummy.

It will get better. If you try to get into a routine for eating/meals, your stoma will then settle down. You will then have a rough idea of when the stoma will become active.