The topic is about bowel irrigation for people with a colostomy. The original poster is curious about what bowel irrigation is and whether it is something that can be done with ileostomies. Here’s some helpful information and advice on the subject:

- Irrigation is generally suitable for people with a colostomy and is not used for ileostomies.
- Establishing a regular irrigation schedule can simplify stoma management and may allow many people with a colostomy to stop wearing a pouch between irrigations.
- It’s important to consult a stoma nurse first, as the suitability of irrigation can vary from person to person.
- For learning resources, you can check out:
1. A written guide available at the Bladder and Bowel website.
2. Video tutorials by searching “stoma irrigation” on YouTube.
3. Additional posts on this forum by navigating to Collections → Premium Content → Ostomy and Irrigation.
- Practical tips from those who irrigate:
1. Be prepared for a learning curve; early attempts might be messy, but most people become proficient quickly.
2. You can secure the irrigation sleeve with a belt or use a two-piece system where the sleeve snaps onto the existing flange for a snug fit.
3. While videos may appear “clean,” expect some unavoidable mess initially—practice will improve your control.
4. Many users find irrigation to be a “lifesaver,” though results can vary; it works perfectly for some, while others may find it less effective.