This topic is about navigating airport security when you have an ostomy. Carol is curious about what to expect and is concerned about potential issues like pat-downs or public searches. Here are some helpful insights and advice from others who have been through similar experiences:

1. Most people with an ostomy report no special problems at airport security.
- Many have never been patted down, and if they were, the staff often stopped when informed about the ostomy.
- You can always request a private screening for medical reasons.

2. It's a good idea to inform the security screener right away by saying, "I have an ostomy."
- Security agents are generally discreet and professional when they know.
- If the agent feels or hears the pouch, calmly identify it and offer to educate them or show a spare pouch or clip.

3. Carry documentation with you.
- A doctor’s letter, preferably in English and the language of the country you are entering, can be helpful.
- The UOAA Ostomy Travel ID Card is available for download at www.uoaa.org. Some travelers find it useful, while others do not, but it can’t hurt to have it.
- One traveler who experienced a strip-search in the Dominican Republic wished she had such papers, as she had to sign forms in Spanish after her pouch was opened.

4. Plan and pack your supplies carefully.
- Keep all appliances, barriers, clips, and at least one fully-assembled pouch in your carry-on. Check an additional supply equal to or greater than what you expect to use.
- Bring roughly double your normal quantity in case your luggage is lost or your travel is extended.
- Small curved scissors with blades under 1 inch/2.5 cm are allowed in U.S./Canadian carry-ons. If unsure, place them in checked baggage.
- One traveler’s kit (bag, wafer, scissors, tape) has been hand-inspected but never confiscated.

5. During the screening process:
- U.S. TSA and Canadian CATSA agents may swab your hands and then ask you to handle the pouch so they can swab again.
- Agents may use a handheld wand; if it beeps at the pouch area, simply explain.
- If language is a barrier, a written note stating "I have a [colostomy/ileostomy/urostomy]" can help prevent misunderstandings.

6. For comfort while flying:
- Avoid carbonated drinks before and during the flight to minimize gas and the risk of ballooning or blow-outs.
- Empty the pouch just before boarding.
- Wear clothing that allows quick, discreet access if you need to check or empty in the lavatory.

7. Some worst-case anecdotes and lessons:
- A strip-search and forced pouch opening were reported when departing the Dominican Republic, highlighting the value of documentation and calm explanation.
- At Manchester (UK), a guard yanked a traveler’s colostomy bag during a pat-down. The traveler loudly identified it and was waved through, illustrating the need for staff training and for travelers to speak up firmly.

8. General attitude:
- Keep a sense of humor; most agents are just as embarrassed as you might be.
- Stay polite but assertive; you are entitled to dignity and privacy.
- Remember that thousands of ostomates fly every day without incident.