Ostomy And Swimming
While it's understandable to have concerns about swimming with an ostomy, it's generally safe and possible to swim with the appropriate precautions. Some tips to keep in mind include:
1. Wait for the wound to heal: Your doctor will advise you on when it's safe to start swimming after your surgery. It's important to wait until the wound has fully healed to reduce the risk of infection.
2. Use an ostomy pouching system: An ostomy pouching system is a bag that collects waste from the stoma. It's important to make sure your pouching system is secure and watertight before you go swimming to prevent leaks.
3. Choose a swimsuit that's comfortable and secure: Look for a swimsuit that's comfortable to wear and that won't put pressure on your ostomy pouch. A one-piece swimsuit with a high waistband or a two-piece swimsuit with a high-waisted bottom can be good options for those with an ostomy.
4. Consider using a waterproof ostomy cover: A waterproof ostomy cover can be placed over your ostomy pouch to provide an extra layer of protection against water and to help keep the pouch in place.
5. Shower after swimming: After swimming, it's important to shower and clean your ostomy pouching system thoroughly to reduce the risk of infection.
By taking these precautions, people with an ostomy can safely enjoy swimming and other water-based activities. It's always a good idea to speak with your doctor or an ostomy nurse for personalized advice and guidance.
Based on discussions from the MeetAnOstoMate Discussion Forum, here are some tips for swimming with an ostomy:
1. Use a one-piece drainable pouch and waterproof tape to secure it for swimming.
2. Wear a looser fitting swimsuit and consider using an ostomy belt for added security.
3. Seek advice from an Ostomy Nurse for reassurance and guidance on swimming with an ostomy.
4. Consider wearing a spandex-type undergarment and an ostomy belt for extra support during water activities.
5. Eat a low residue meal before swimming and consider consuming marshmallows to reduce output.
6. Avoid swimming on the same day as changing the appliance and wear a baggy swimsuit or use boxer briefs to keep the bag in place.
7. Look into specialized ostomy products designed for swimming, such as belts or pouch holders.
8. Consider using a light support garment or girdle to keep the pouch secure during swimming.
9. Explore using Securi-T hydrocolloid skin barrier strips and a two-piece system for added security during water activities.
10. Choose a swimsuit that provides extra support for the ostomy bag.
11. Stay active and don't let the ostomy control your life.
12. Consider using a bag with a vent to reduce gas build-up and minimize the risk of the bag becoming loose from pressure.
For additional advice and insights, consider posting your question in the discussion forum of MeetAnOstoMate.org for more personalized tips and experiences.
Check out these links for more information:
- Swimming with an Ostomy: Tips and Diet Advice (August 31, 2012)
- Swimming with an Ostomy: Tips and Gear Recommendations? (February 11, 2011)
- Swimming with an Ostomy Bag: Leak-Free Tips (December 17, 2021)
- Swimming with a Stoma Bag: Tips? (April 03, 2022)
- Swimming with an Ileostomy: What to Wear? (November 24, 2013)
- Swimming with an Ostomy: What Do I Need? (February 15, 2020)
- Swimming with an Ileostomy: Advice needed! (December 11, 2016)
- Swimming with an Ostomy: Worried about leaks and embarrassment (May 27, 2013)
- Swimming and Hiking with an Ostomy: Need Advice! (April 14, 2013)
- Returning to the pool after ileostomy: Tips? (July 24, 2022)
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