This topic is about connecting with others who have lived with a urostomy for a long time. The original poster has had an ileal conduit urostomy since 1984 due to a severe chemical injury and is excited to find a community to share experiences and advice.

Here are some helpful insights and advice shared by others:

- One person has lived with a stoma since age 13 and is now 39. They are curious about what an "Indiana pouch" is and if it's available in India. They work for Lenovo in Pondicherry and currently order supplies from Mumbai but would prefer to find a source in Chennai. They are also interested in knowing which products other Indian urostomates use, where they purchase them, and where they go for regular check-ups.

- General adaptation and attitude: Many members, including cancer and trauma survivors, mention that life can feel almost normal. Accepting the appliance and maintaining a positive perspective is important. Some choose early retirement, while others continue working full-time in various fields like software engineering, teaching, and cycling.

- Indiana pouch (continent urinary reservoir): This is constructed from a segment of the colon and is drained every 4–7 hours through a small stoma near the pubic bone. Some post-op issues include occasional leaks if not emptied on time and minor urinary tract infections, but overall satisfaction is reported. One member had this surgery in March 2008 after exploring neo-bladder alternatives.

- Climate, wear-time, and skin care: In cooler climates like Bangalore, a locally made pouch can last 10–15 days. In hotter, more humid places like Chennai, adhesives can soften quickly, leading to sweat, odor, itching, and shorter wear-time. Increasing fluid intake helps dilute urine and reduce odor. In Scotland, the Oakmed MicroSkin urostomy pouch is changed every 4–5 days, with blue dye indicating when a change is needed, and itching or stronger odor warning of an impending leak.

- Products, manufacturers, and cost: In Bangalore, locally manufactured reusable uropouches cost about ₹50 each, with belts, rings, and adhesive "stickers" also made locally. Imported items like Alcare Paste and Adhesive Sheet from Japan are commonly used. In the UK, the Oakmed MicroSkin pouch is supplied by Fittleworth and is free through the NHS, with a 2-litre overnight drainage bag used. Local supply addresses in India include:
1. Karnataka Cancer Society, No 1038, 11th B Cross, Vyalikaval, Bangalore
2. Sri Ramana Surgical Clinic, #18 Hindi Prachar Sabha St., T. Nagar, Chennai 600017 (near Bharat petrol bunk)
3. Sr Anjali Patwardan (ET nurse), Tata Memorial Cancer Hospital, Vile Parle, Mumbai
4. Sr Saroja & Dr Trivardhanan’s Clinic, Egmore, Chennai

- Financial and access considerations: In India, ostomy supplies are sold by private organizations with no government provision, but rehabilitation centers and private clinics help keep costs low. In the UK, supplies are state-funded for lifelong conditions.

- Devices and surgical history mentions: The Brantley Scott artificial urethral sphincter (cuff type) was removed due to urethral necrosis. Persistent low-grade urine infections can remain an issue decades after surgery.

- Practical tips echoed by several members:
1. Stay well-hydrated to flush bacteria and reduce odor.
2. Monitor pouch wear-time by noticing itching, adhesive lifting, or odor changes.
3. Night drainage systems can improve sleep quality.
4. Seek cooler environments or use extra skin-barrier support during hot seasons.