Using A Car Seat Belt With A Stoma (Ostomy)
Navigating the everyday realities of living with an ostomy can present unique challenges, one of which is the use of a car seat belt. Driving is a routine part of many people's lives, but for those with an ostomy, the pressing of a seat belt against their stoma can be a source of discomfort and anxiety. Based on the discussions from the MeetAnOstoMate Discussion Forum, here are the tips and advice for using a car seat belt for people with an ostomy:
1. Use a headrest around the stoma under the seatbelt, with the opening facing down to allow output to travel to the bottom of the pouch without being blocked.
2. Place a towel, jacket, or another flexible, thick item between the seatbelt and the body to give the ostomy some room to breathe.
3. Consider using a clothespin near the retraction slot to relieve tension on the belt.
4. Look into accessories made specifically for this purpose, such as the OCC Seatbelt Protector by the Ostomy Clothing Company.
5. Some individuals prefer to wear the seatbelt without any modifications, while others use a clip to keep the belt from retracting.
6. It's important to consider the legal implications of modifying the seatbelt and to drive at your own risk if choosing to do so.
7. Some individuals have found creative ways to address the issue, such as using a small travel pillow over the waist to cover the stoma and attaching the seatbelt over it.
8. There are products available, like the StomaDome, that can be used with adhesive strips or placed over the stoma under the seatbelt.
For additional advice and insights, it is recommended to post the question in the discussion forum of MeetAnOstoMate.org for more personalized tips and experiences.
Check out these links for more information:
- Seatbelt Adjustments for Ostomates: Tips and Recommendations (January 16, 2023)
- Seatbelt Safety with Ileostomy: Fact or Fiction? (April 26, 2015)
- Seat belt placement for stomas? (August 26, 2019)
- Share Your Ostomy Tips! Helpful advice for daily life with an ostomy. (April 17, 2009)
- Seat Belt Safety: Can Pouches Survive Auto Accidents? (January 25, 2017)
- 10 Tips for Newbies: Advice from a Newbie (May 20, 2011)
- Wearing a Belt with an Ileostomy: Need Advice! (July 18, 2017)
- Questions about Belts, Protectors, and More! Need advice on ostomy accessories. (August 11, 2016)
- Coaster Rides with an Ostomy: Any Tips? (October 01, 2021)
- Ostomy Belt: Seeking Comfort and Advice (March 28, 2023)
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