Showering with an ostomy bag can be a bit nerve-wracking, especially if you're new to it. The good news is that modern ostomy systems are designed to be waterproof, so you can shower without too much worry. Here are some helpful tips and insights to make the experience smoother and more comfortable:

1. General reassurance:
- Many people have no issues with leakage when showering with their pouch and flange on. These systems are built to handle water.
- Warm water can actually help the wafer stick better. Some people find it helpful to shower a few hours after applying a new wafer to let the seal set properly.

2. Preparing before the shower:
- Make sure to empty your pouch first. Some people even open the drainable end during the shower to let contents rinse away.
- If you're planning a full change, you can remove the whole system and enjoy a shower without the bag. Otherwise, just leave it on.
- To slow down an active stoma, try eating a few marshmallows about 30 minutes before showering.

3. Drying afterwards:
- Gently pat the pouch and flange with a towel or some toilet paper, then use a hair-dryer on a warm or cool setting to dry the edges.
- One person wraps a Velcro bath towel under the flange and uses a washcloth to dry the pouch, which takes about 15 minutes.
- You can also cover the pouch with Glad Press ’n Seal before showering to keep it completely dry.

4. Protecting adhesion in water:
- Use waterproof tape to "picture-frame" the wafer, which works well for many people.
- Wafers from brands like Coloplast, Hollister, and Convatec are known to hold up well during daily showers. However, prolonged soaking in baths or hot tubs might soften the adhesive, so plan a change if needed.

5. Change-day routines:
- Some people prefer to shower without any appliance on the days they change the wafer, applying a fresh system once their skin is dry.
- Others only change the pouch after showering, rolling or taping the old pouch up to protect the flange during the shower.

6. Cleaning the pouch in the shower:
- If you use Hollister or Coloplast pouches, you can clean the inside with mild soap or an old toothbrush, rinse well, and then towel or hair-dry before reattaching.

7. Products and systems mentioned:
- Various products like Hollister New Image, Coloplast Sensura Click, and Convatec systems are popular choices.
- Waterproof tape and adhesive skin-prep wipes can provide extra security.
- Glad Press ’n Seal wrap is handy for temporary waterproofing.

8. Wear-time experiences:
- People report wear times ranging from 2 days to 7 days without losing adhesion, even with daily showers.

With these tips, showering with your ostomy appliance can become a simple and worry-free part of your routine.