This topic is about finding ways to prevent leaks in ostomy seals, especially after experiencing weight gain and undergoing cancer treatment. The person sharing their experience used to have their ostomy pouch last about five days, but now it starts leaking after just three. They have tried using ostomy paste at the leak site without success and are looking for practical tips to extend the wear time of their ostomy system.

Here are some helpful suggestions:

1. Try a different wafer brand or style:
- Some people have found success by switching from one brand to another, such as from ConvaTec to Hollister, to eliminate leaks.
- Weight changes can affect the shape of your abdomen. If you currently use a firm wafer, consider trying a more flexible "soft" wafer, or vice versa. You can request free samples from manufacturers to see what works best for you.

2. Consider convexity, belts, and overall appliance support:
- Using a convex wafer with an ostomy belt has helped some users achieve longer wear times, up to 9 days in some cases.
- An ostomy belt can provide additional support and help prevent the edges from lifting, which is especially useful if your body shape has changed.

3. Add an ostomy barrier seal or ring:
- Products like the Eakin Cohesive Seal can be cut, stretched, and placed around the stoma before applying the wafer. Users have reported up to a week of wear time without leaks.
- Silicone or other barrier rings might also be helpful, though results can vary from person to person.

4. Improve skin preparation and application technique:
- If your skin is weepy, dry it first with a barrier powder and then dust off any excess.
- Pull the skin around the stoma upward so the wafer sits flat, and apply it from the bottom upward.
- Warming the wafer with your hand or a towel from the dryer can help activate the adhesive.

5. Re-assess stoma size and output consistency:
- Measure your stoma again, as its size may have changed due to cancer treatment, weight gain, or edema, which might require a new opening size.
- If chemotherapy has made your output more watery, you might need a product line designed for high-liquid output.

6. Change frequency and back-up products:
- Some people change their entire system daily after a shower to prevent unexpected leaks.
- Using Coloplast sealing strips over a Dansac pouch can provide added security when you're out and about.

7. Troubleshooting checklist:
- Identify the exact location and timing of leaks (e.g., top, side, bottom, night, exercise).
- Note your current wafer brand, whether it's flat or convex, and if you use rings or paste. Also, consider skin folds and the type of output (ileostomy liquid vs. colostomy solid) to help pinpoint the root cause.