Colostomy Irrigation - Peer Advice

Colostomy irrigation, while time-intensive, promises significant benefits like prolonged periods free from bathroom visits and enhanced participation in diverse activities without apprehension. Prior to attempting irrigation, consulting healthcare professionals such as doctors or stoma nurses is crucial to assess suitability and ensure safety. Additionally, adopting the correct methods and equipment, such as specific irrigation kits and sleeves, enhances comfort and efficiency during the process. Educational resources like YouTube videos can offer practical understanding, while daily consistency and experimentation with positions can optimize the procedure. For many, colostomy irrigation is not just a medical practice but a pathway to regained autonomy and minimal daily bag management, underscoring its potential to transform the lives of those with a colostomy.

Based on the discussions from the MeetAnOstoMate Discussion Forum, here are the tips and advice on colostomy irrigation:

- Irrigation is a beneficial tool for managing a colostomy, providing freedom from constantly emptying bags and the ability to engage in various activities without worry.
- It's recommended to consult with a doctor or stoma nurse to determine if one qualifies for irrigation.
- Ensure the water temperature is around 36°C before putting it in, and drink a glass of room temperature water bit by bit after starting to empty the water out of the stoma into the toilet.
- Irrigation can be time-consuming, taking a few hours from start to finish, but it can provide about 36 hours uninterrupted by bathroom trips.
- Seek guidance from an ostomy nurse or surgeon before attempting irrigation to ensure it is safe for your stoma.
- Watch instructional videos on stoma irrigation on YouTube for a better understanding of the process.
- Consider using stick-on plastic hooks for hanging the bag while traveling, and always irrigate at the same time every day.
- Experiment with different positions, such as standing or sitting, to help with the irrigation process.
- Using the right equipment, such as the Hollister sleeve, can make the process more comfortable.
- It's important to consult with a doctor or ostomy nurse to determine if one qualifies for irrigation, especially if there isn't much colon left.
- Irrigation can provide a sense of freedom, reduced expelling of wind, no bag to dispose of, no sweaty skin under the bag, and almost no smell.
- Irrigation can lead to a life with less daily management of a bag, making the process worthwhile for some individuals.
- It's important to consult with a doctor or ostomy nurse to determine if one qualifies for irrigation, especially if there isn't much colon left.
- Irrigation can provide a sense of freedom and control, and many have had good success with it.
- Irrigation can allow for output-free days and provide convenience without worrying about bags during the day.

Remember to consult with a healthcare professional before attempting irrigation, as not everyone is suitable for it. Additionally, it's important to watch instructional videos and seek advice from others who have experience with irrigation.

Check out these links for more information:

• Seeking advice on irrigation for colostomy (May 12, 2022)
• Colostomy irrigation not working, need suggestions (September 11, 2016)
• Irrigation Questions: Need Help with Technique and Travel Tips! (June 19, 2012)
• Seeking Fellow Irrigators (February 20, 2019)
• Irrigation for Leaking Stoma - Need Advice! (June 10, 2020)
• Need advice on starting irrigation with colostomy (September 10, 2016)
• Need help with irrigation training for colostomy - any suggestions? (April 07, 2021)
• Seeking advice on colostomy irrigation pros and cons (July 25, 2012)
• Need advice on irrigating and managing odor with colostomy (March 13, 2016)
• Irrigation: Explained for Colostomies? (August 12, 2020)