This topic is about the experiences and opinions of people with ileostomies regarding vented ileostomy pouches. These pouches have filters or vents designed to release gas and reduce ballooning, but there are mixed reviews about their effectiveness. Here are some insights and advice from those who have used them:

1. Many people find that the filters or vents in these pouches tend to clog within a couple of days. This often happens because water from showering or rinsing the pouch can damage the filter. However, clogging doesn't necessarily mean you need to change the pouch immediately. Most people simply "burp" the pouch to release gas.

2. If you want to avoid issues with the vent, you can cover or disable it. Many pouches come with round stickers for this purpose, or you can use waterproof tape. This can help prevent pancaking and leaks, especially if your output is liquid or if you are lying down. If you receive vented bags you don't want, covering the vent is a good alternative to throwing them away.

3. Leakage through the filter is a common issue, especially if your output is loose or watery, which is typical for ileostomies. This is more likely to happen when you are reclining or sleeping, potentially soiling clothing and bedding.

4. Ballooning, where the pouch fills with gas, can still occur even with a vent. Some people report minimal ballooning with certain brands, suggesting that results may depend more on the consistency of your output than the brand of the pouch.

5. There are alternative options for managing odor and gas. A Stealth Belt can help mask odor and allows for a deodorizer sachet, which some find more effective than a vent. ColoMagic liner bags can keep stool away from the filter in colostomy situations, though they may not be as helpful for liquid ileostomy output. Pop-style gas-release valves or aftermarket add-ons like the Osto Ez-Vent can be fitted to most pouches and are preferred by some users over built-in vents.

6. Some specific product experiences include issues with Hollister 8958 (one-piece) filters, which have recently started leaking for some users. They now prefer attaching an Osto Ez-Vent. Built-in vents are generally thought to work better for people with formed stool rather than those with liquid output.

7. The general consensus among many ileostomates is that built-in vents are often seen as "useless," prone to leaks, or damaging to clothing. A common practice is to either disable the vent or avoid vented bags altogether, relying instead on manual burping, deodorizer additives, or external gas-release valves.