This topic is about dealing with a tear or abrasion on the surface of a stoma, which can be concerning and uncomfortable. The person experiencing this issue is unsure why it's happening, especially since they believe they are cutting the opening in their pouch wafer large enough to avoid constriction.

Here are some helpful insights and advice:

1. Schedule a visit with a certified ostomy nurse as soon as possible. An in-person assessment can provide personalized guidance and help identify the cause of the issue.

2. One common cause of stoma tears is accidental trauma during the application or removal of the wafer or pouch. This can happen if the edge of the wafer presses against the stoma, if a fingernail grazes it, or if it gets bumped by any object.

3. Be mindful of gentle actions that might inadvertently cause harm. Even lightly brushing the stoma with a towel while drying can lead to small cuts, as the stoma tissue is very delicate and takes time to heal once injured.