Topic Explanation:
The initial post asks for an explanation of the usefulness of using a belt with an ileostomy, as the user has only used a flange and drainable pouch for nearly 20 years.

Advice and Insights:
- Belts help support and secure the bag on the skin, providing extra security.
- Some individuals find that wearing a belt helps prevent hernias and provides abdominal support.
- Belts can add pressure to the barrier around the stoma to prevent leaks and provide peace of mind.
- Wearing a belt can prolong the time between barrier changes and distribute weight around the body, reducing the risk of hernias.
- Belts can be beneficial for maintaining barrier adhesion, especially in case of leaks, and can be helpful during activities like exercise.
- Wearing a belt for a period after changing the appliance can aid in the adhesion process.
- Some individuals feel uncomfortable or uneasy without a belt, as it provides a sense of security and containment for the pouch.
- Different types of belts, such as stealth belts and wraps, offer varying levels of support and containment for the pouch.

Additional Insights:
- Some individuals may experience discomfort with belts, especially if the stoma is located low on the surface, and may opt for alternative solutions like wraps for support and containment.
- For individuals with a hernia, customized belts and soft barriers can help push the hernia back in and keep the stoma in place.
- Belts can also help with posture and provide a sense of containment, especially during activities or at night.