I travel often, and the only problem I've had (and it was minor), was in Amsterdam. The body scanner revealed my bag and I was asked to step aside. The gentleman said "there's something here", and pointed to my bag. I said "it's an ostomy pouch, would you like to see it?" He was satisfied with that explanation and sent me on my way. I was asked about it once at an American airport (sorry...don't recall which one), and I asked to have privacy, and that was enough to wave me through. I think it was Detroit. I agree with the previous posters: just be bold. It seems to be more embarrassing for the security person than it does for you. I think they've finally gotten the message (at least in America), that we're all different, and there's no need to be rude to us, or assume the worst right off the bat.
Here's where my biggest issue occurred: At Heathrow...but that was because I fertilized my roses before I left the US. Fertilizer residue was detected on my carry-on. Let me tell ya...that's way worse than traveling with an ostomy pouch. Fortunately, I was at the airport plenty early, 'cause that took some explaining.
I'm presently in Jamaica, vacationing with my kids and having a ball, despite having a blowout yesterday. But as they say down here "every little ting, gonna be all right."
Why Join MeetAnOstoMate?
First off, this is a pretty cool site with 33,641 members. Get inside and you will see.
It's not all about ostomy. Everything is being discussed.
Many come here for advice or to give advice 🗣, others have found good friends 🤗, and there are also those who have found love 💓. Most of all, people are honest and truly care.
Privacy is very important - the website has many features that are only visible to members.
Create an account and you will be amazed.
Advertisement
Hollister
We sat down with two influential people in the ostomy community, to find out how they cope during challenging times.
Read what they had to say.
Read what they had to say.