This topic revolves around the curiosity some people have about inserting a finger into their stoma. The main question is whether this is a safe or risky thing to do. Here are some insights and advice shared by others on this topic:

1. General medical caution:
- Many people mention that their doctors and ostomy nurses strongly advise against inserting anything into the stoma unless it's medically necessary. The risks include trauma, bleeding, infection, or creating a stricture.
- Some simply refuse the idea, considering it unsafe or even "crazy."

2. When professionals do it:
- Surgeons and stoma nurses sometimes insert a gloved finger to check for strictures or relieve blockages. This is usually not too uncomfortable unless active dilation is involved.
- Experiences vary, with some finding it mildly uncomfortable and others describing it as "very unpleasant."

3. DIY for blockages or irrigation:
- A few people have been trained by stoma nurses to gently insert a finger or a short piece of rubber tubing to:
- Break up or dislodge minor blockages.
- Determine the angle for an irrigation cone.
- Temporarily stop output during appliance changes.
- Those who irrigate regularly find that inserting a lubricated, gloved finger can help with dilation and ease cone insertion.

4. Technique and safety tips:
- Always use a disposable glove or finger condom and plenty of lubricant, like Vaseline.
- Keep the chosen finger nail-free, well-manicured, and smooth to avoid tearing the mucosa.
- Insert slowly and gently, and stop if you feel pain, resistance, or notice bleeding.
- Wash hands thoroughly before and after the process.

5. Sensation and comfort:
- Most people report little or no sensation inside the intestinal lining itself. Pain usually occurs only when surrounding tissue is stretched or the stoma is actively dilated.
- The experience is often described as "strange" rather than painful.

6. Alternative tools mentioned:
- Finger condoms, which can be found at drug stores.
- Rubber tubing or an anal catheter for relieving blockages.
- Irrigation cones, stoma plugs, and wafer baseplates are mentioned in the context of why dilation might be needed.

7. Divergent views:
- Some see finger insertion as a useful skill for emergencies.
- Others consider it unnecessary, potentially risky, or simply "gross" unless advised by medical professionals.