Color Logo for MeetAnOstoMate
Sponsored by Hollister
Login   |  
Forgot password?
 
Forum
Videos
Reviews
About Us
Color Logo for MeetAnOstoMate
Where Everybody Understands You
41,452 members
Dec 14, 2020

Help! Colostomy Bag Leaking at Night - Need Advice!

This topic is about dealing with night-time leaks from a colostomy bag, especially when the stoma is located near a fresh surgical incision. The person is looking for advice on causes, products, and positioning tips to prevent leaks and protect the wound. Here are some helpful insights and suggestions:

1. Make sure you are using the right equipment for an "innie" stoma:
- Consider using a convex wafer or barrier, as flat ones might not work well with retracted stomas.
- If the edges of the wafer lift, try adding barrier extenders.

2. Check the barrier or ring after each change:
- Remove the barrier more frequently, like daily, to find the exact point of leakage.
- Look at the impression on the Eakin/Eco Seal to see where the output is getting underneath.

3. Prepare your skin properly for better adhesion:
- Ensure your skin is completely dry before applying any products.
- If your skin is weepy, lightly dust with stoma powder, seal with a no-sting adhesive skin prep, let it dry, and apply a second coat before drying again.
- Avoid using powders and creams if your skin is healthy, as too many products can lead to poor adhesion and leaks.

4. Customize the wafer cutting:
- If the stoma is close to the incision, cut the wafer hole off-center so more adhesive is between the stoma and incision. Press firmly or wear a support belt for several hours after fitting.

5. Try different products:
- Request free samples from companies like Convatec, Coloplast, and Hollister to test various wafer materials and adhesives.
- Consider using barrier extenders, belts, or elastic wraps for added security.

6. Adjust the frequency of changes:
- Shorten the wear-time until the leakage stops, as damaged skin heals faster with dry, intact barriers.

7. Experiment with sleeping positions and equipment:
- Sleeping on your back or side can reduce pressure on the pouch.
- If you prefer sleeping on your stomach, place a pillow under your torso and bend the knee on the pouch side to allow the bag to expand.
- An adjustable bed that elevates the head and feet can help keep you on your back and allow output to flow freely overnight.

8. Control the volume of night-time output:
- Consider limiting late-night snacking or choose low-residue foods in the evening to reduce overnight output.

9. Explore colostomy irrigation as a longer-term option:
- This is usually introduced 6–8 weeks after surgery, once healing is complete. Many people find that irrigation can virtually eliminate the need for wearing a bag and prevent leaks. Discuss this option with your surgeon or ostomy nurse, and look for guidance from YouTube tutorials and forum members when you're ready.
See full discusison
Gray Logo for MeetAnOstoMate
MeetAnOstoMate.org

MeetAnOstoMate is a remarkable community of 41,452 members.

“Every morning with my coffee, I read here and feel wrapped in warmth - I hardly post, but it still feels like family.”

“Our oncologist literally wrote down the link; they said more patients need this website.”

“This place pulled me out of the dark. I went from lurking to living again.”

“At 3am, someone’s awake somewhere in the world. I’m never alone here.”

Join Free

Popular Topics

Trying Cauliflower for the First Time
Swimming in the Ocean with a Stoma Exposed
Social media ban for children under 16
Keeping distance
Stealth Belt
Purple Discoloration on Stoma at 3 O'clock Position
Hydration Challenges After Colon Removal
Can any of you feel it??
MOTORCYCLE DREAMS
PUNCTUATION

New Topics

Reducing Stoma Size Suggestions
I wanna hear all the reasons!
Bodybuilder Shares Life After Ostomy Surgery
Hello to you who may read this.
Hernia Under Stoma: Recommendations for Inguinal Hernia Belts
Hey stoma mamas!
Ya gots troubles? Flabby to the rescue
blank space
Tip on New Product for Skin Irritation
Double Eyed Fug Parrot
About us | Privacy policy | Terms of use | Ostomy Blogs | Ostomy Q&A | Guides | Contact Us
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and Google Privacy Policy and Google Terms of Service apply.
Copyright (c) MeetAnOstoMate.org All Rights Reserved
Create Account
Login
↑