This topic is about dealing with a stoma that has started to retract, which is causing pain and frequent leaks from the ostomy pouch. The person experiencing this issue is looking for advice and practical solutions to manage the retraction and prevent leaks. Here are some suggestions and insights shared by others who have faced similar challenges:

1. Ostomy belt support
- Wearing a Nu-Hope ostomy belt both day and night can apply gentle, even pressure to help the stoma protrude. Many have found that this significantly reduces leaks, sometimes by over 90%.
- A caregiver noted that using the belt helped the stoma protrude again within a few hours.

2. Barrier/seal products to fill gaps
- Eakin Cohesive Seals can be placed around the stoma to prevent output from seeping under the wafer.
- Paste rings from brands like Hollister can be molded to fill in areas where the abdomen dips, which is especially helpful if retraction is due to scar creases or shifted hernia mesh.

3. Switch to convex appliances
- Switching from a flat flange to a shallow or deep convexity pouch can provide gentle pressure that encourages the stoma to stay out and improves the seal.
- Pelican Select Convex pouches are recommended for their soft flange and effective seal, available in various depths of convexity.
- Tip: Cut the opening to fit the stoma’s smallest size and use skin-barrier wipes to protect the skin around the stoma.

4. Surgical & procedural options (when appliances fail)
- Staples can be placed around the stoma to hold it out, though results vary.
- Injection of a permanent stiffening agent, similar to Botox but permanent, can harden the stoma. This has had partial success but can be costly, around $1,000 per treatment.
- Full stoma refashioning or relocating it to a new spot on the abdomen is often considered when other measures don’t work.
- If a hernia mesh shift is contributing to retraction, ask about mesh repair, possibly done laparoscopically.

5. Practical leak-prevention tips
- For night-time protection, especially if you sleep on your back, combine a belt, convex pouch, and cohesive seal.
- Consult with your stoma or ET nurse for personalized fitting advice and to get samples from brands like Nu-Hope, Eakin, Hollister, and Pelican.