This topic is about finding alternatives to traditional ostomy bags for those who are new to irrigation and are dealing with gas-related issues, specifically "ballooning." Ballooning happens when gas builds up and causes the covering over the stoma to inflate, which can be inconvenient and uncomfortable. The person in question has been using a cotton pad and Coroplast film to cover their stoma after irrigation, but they are experiencing issues with the film not sticking properly after releasing the gas. They are seeking advice on how to manage this without resorting to disposable bags. Here are some suggestions and insights shared by others:

1. Coloplast Conseal Plug
- This plug is made from a porous polyurethane material that allows gas to escape while keeping any residual waste contained.
- Many people who irrigate successfully use this as an alternative to bags. You can request free samples directly from Coloplast to try it out.

2. Patches
- The Hollister Stoma Cap 1796 is recommended by some as it offers better adhesion than homemade solutions and is still small and discreet.
- There are other commercial patches available. You can explore the "collections" section of forums for a list of products that might work for you.

3. Gas-reduction strategies
- Several members suggest that changing your diet can significantly reduce gas production, by as much as 90%.
- Reducing or eliminating breads, grains, and cereals from your diet can help decrease internal gas, which in turn reduces ballooning with both patches and plugs.

4. Practical tip from patch users
- Once dietary gas is minimized, the need to burp the patch is rare. Frequent burping can weaken the adhesion of most patches and films, so reducing gas can help maintain a better seal.