This topic is about dealing with the sometimes embarrassing noises that can come from an ostomy, especially in public settings. The person sharing their experience is a teacher who has named her stoma "Henry." She finds it challenging to manage unexpected, loud gas noises at work, which can be particularly stressful in a high-school environment where students might laugh or make comments. Here are some helpful tips and insights for managing these situations:

1. Avoid fasting:
- Skipping meals can lead to more air in the gut, which makes gas noises louder.
- Try eating small, frequent snacks that are easy to digest, like cereal, plain biscuits, bananas, sandwiches, or crackers. Drink plenty of water.
- Stay away from foods that are known to produce gas, such as chocolate, carbonated drinks, or anything that you know upsets your system.

2. Consider anti-gas medication:
- Over-the-counter options like GasX (simethicone) can be taken before work and at lunchtime to help reduce stoma noise.

3. Muffle the sound:
- Use your hand, arm, or a folded jacket to cover the stoma when you feel gas building up.
- Sit with a jacket or sweater across your lap and choose seats at the end of a row to limit exposure.
- Place a nursing or breast-feeding pad, or a similar soft material, inside your waistband to act as a "silencer."

4. Handle the social situation:
- Use light humor, such as saying, "Excuse me, my stomach’s hungry," or "Henry’s voicing his opinion."
- Be open about having an ostomy and explain that you cannot control the noise; most people will understand.
- If someone reacts rudely, remember that the issue is theirs, not yours. Adopt a polite mindset and move on.

5. Build confidence:
- Develop a thick skin and remember that everyone with an ostomy experiences this.
- Knowing you are not alone can help reduce feelings of embarrassment and stress.