This topic is about a person who has been experiencing stoma prolapse after undergoing cancer surgery and radiation. They are seeking advice and insights from others who might have faced similar issues. Here’s a summary of their situation and some helpful advice shared by others:

- The person’s stoma often prolapses, extending about an inch or more. They also experience rectal leakage due to radiation damage.
- Their stoma nurse mentioned that prolapse is common, but the person is looking for advice from others with similar experiences.
- The prolapse tends to retract when they are lying down or relaxing, but they are concerned about it worsening.

Here are some insights and advice from others:

1. Mild, intermittent protrusion of about an inch is often just normal peristaltic movement. Many people notice their stoma extending and retracting during digestion, which is usually not a cause for concern.

2. Larger, persistent prolapses (3 inches or more) can cause issues such as:
- Difficulty in applying a pouch and frequent leaks.
- Ulcers and bleeding due to rubbing from the appliance.
- Distorted clothing and reduced confidence.

3. Ways to manage prolapse include:
- Lying flat can help the stoma retract when the prolapse is moderate.
- Avoid heavy lifting and straining; keep activities light to reduce intra-abdominal pressure.
- Monitor the color of the prolapsed section; if it turns dark purple, seek medical help immediately as this can indicate restricted blood flow.
- If there is constant watery output and excessive peristalsis, discuss dietary changes or anti-diarrhoeal medication with a clinician, as high motility can worsen prolapse.
- Using convex baseplates or wafers can improve the fit on a shortened, repaired, or mildly prolapsed stoma. Many have found success with this approach.
- Surgical revision, such as stoma re-fashioning, is an option when prolapse reaches 5–6 inches, does not retract, or continually causes leaks and skin damage. After revision, some report fewer problems, though they may still use a convex appliance.