Driving with an ostomy can sometimes be uncomfortable, especially when it comes to wearing a seatbelt. The pressure from a standard seatbelt can feel tight against an ostomy pouch, leading many to seek out solutions for a more comfortable ride. Here are some ideas and tips that might help:

1. Use a small travel headrest by sliding it under the seatbelt with the opening facing down. This can lift the belt away from the pouch.
2. Place a folded towel, jacket, or any soft, thick item between the seatbelt and your abdomen to cushion the area.
3. Clip a clothespin near the seatbelt’s retraction slot to prevent it from tightening further. This tip comes from the United Ostomy Associations of America (UOAA).
4. Consider purchasing the OCC Seatbelt Protector from the Ostomy Clothing Company for added comfort.

Some additional advice and insights from others include:

- Many people find that simply buckling up and driving works fine, as stomas are often more resilient than we might think.
- Seatbelt clips can be attached at the shoulder anchor or near the retractor to keep the belt away from the stoma and prevent it from tightening. This is particularly effective if the stoma is on the same side as the belt’s lower anchor.
- Use cushions or padding, like a small travel pillow or a rolled-up jacket, over the stoma before fastening the seatbelt.
- Dedicated protectors such as the OCC Seatbelt Protector or the StomaDome from Stealth Belt can provide extra protection. The StomaDome can be held in place with adhesive strips or simply placed under the belt.
- For a different approach, pull the seatbelt completely out and wrap it over one knee. This way, the shoulder strap remains visible to police, but there’s no pressure on the pouch.
- In some cases, a medical or legal exemption might be an option. Some people choose not to wear a seatbelt at all, and surgeons can provide a written exemption letter for law enforcement if local laws permit.
- It’s important to remember the risks involved. Not wearing a seatbelt can lead to more serious injuries than any potential discomfort or trauma to the stoma from the belt.

These suggestions aim to make driving with an ostomy more comfortable while keeping safety in mind.