This topic is all about finding or creating a stoma guard that doesn't interfere with the flow of output. A stoma guard is a protective device that can help shield your stoma from bumps and pressure, which is especially useful during daily activities or at work. Here are some insights and advice shared by others:

1. If your stoma is located high on your abdomen and your waistband no longer covers it, you might wonder if a guard needs to be worn under the pants line. It's a common concern, and finding the right fit is key.

2. For daytime use and general protection, especially at work, you might consider purchasing a hernia belt in addition to a stoma guard.

3. If you've tried the Stealthbelt and it didn't work for you, there are other options to explore.

4. If you use a 2-piece adhesive system and can't rotate the pouch to empty it, you might be curious why some people wear their pouch sideways. This can help reduce frontal bulge and provide better support when used with a Stealthbelt or elastic wrap.

Here are some specific products and DIY ideas:

- StomaGear "Stoma Guard": This guard doesn't restrict flow and comes in three sizes. It requires a simple elastic belt, which you can buy or make yourself. Someone even offered to give away unused guards in small and large sizes.

- Stoma Protech Guard: This is a rigid shield worn with snug-fitting shorts. It has been effective in reducing discomfort and protecting the stoma from impacts, like when a large dog bumped into it.

- Stoma Dome: A hard plastic shell that attaches directly to the pouch with Velcro. It's useful for incidental bumps when waistbands aren't an issue.

- Edgepark Medical Supplies: They sell "stoma guides" in packs of 100, though these are different from rigid guards and are not covered by Medicare.

- DIY/Home-Made Solutions:
- A custom baseplate with a protruding waste-pipe and a detachable 90-degree bend can channel output downward and serve as a night-time guard.
- For daytime, a stoma plug with an inverted plastic cap can act as a low-profile shield.
- These parts can be sourced cheaply from household or hardware items, allowing for multiple interchangeable devices.
- A simple shallow plastic tray attached to an abdominal belt was tried by a rugby player, but it shifted easily and was not used again.

Lastly, it's important to note that most commercial guards in the USA are not covered by insurance, so you might need to pay out-of-pocket for these products.