Swimming with an ostomy can be a bit of a puzzle, but with the right tips and tricks, it can be a smooth and enjoyable experience. Here’s a friendly guide to help you navigate swimming with an ostomy, including protective covers, swimwear, and product options.

- Filter seal-stickers: These are small adhesive tabs that come with filtered pouches from brands like Hollister and ConvaTec. You can place them over the filter before swimming or showering to prevent water from getting in. Some people rely on these and keep extras in their car, backpack, or suitcase. Others find they can swim without them just fine.

- Regular swimwear: Many people with a colostomy or ileostomy find that they can swim in their regular pouch and a standard swimsuit or tankini without needing extra covers. Just be cautious with vigorous swimming, as it might occasionally break the seal.

- Hollister “Cap”: This is a flat cover that clips to the flange and works well for a colostomy with intermittent output. However, it’s not recommended for an ileostomy, as liquid output can quickly fill and balloon the cap.

- Experience with caps and ileostomies: One person with an ileostomy tried using a cap while swimming, but it ballooned with waste, leading to an emergency change. It’s better to stick with a standard drainable pouch for continuous output. Keep in mind that the flange adhesive might weaken after being in the water for a long time, so you may need to change it afterward.

- Cymed MicroSkin system: The Cymed Micro Skin Ostomy Pouching System is known to stay on securely during activities like water aerobics, with no leakage reported.

- Specialized swimwear and waterproof sleeves: Vanilla Blush offers swimsuits and lingerie designed for ostomates. The Dry Pro waterproof ostomy protector provides a vacuum-sealed sleeve to keep the flange and filter dry, which can be handy if you need to self-fund pouches. Some find it looks cumbersome, but it becomes easier with practice.

- Concealment tips: Swimsuits with boy-cut legs or tankini styles can fully hide the pouch without needing extra support. Bikini or thong-style underwear from regular stores might sit below the pouch line for everyday wear.

- Additional notes: Laparoscopic surgery can leave minimal or no visible scars, which explains the appearance of some models. A designer is also working on a new watertight pouch cover, with updates expected in the future.