Traveling with a colostomy can sometimes lead to mixed experiences at airport security, and it's helpful to know what to expect and how to handle different situations. Here's a summary of experiences and advice from fellow travelers:

- At Indianapolis Airport, one traveler experienced a simple pat-down of the outside of the pouch and was quickly waved through security.

- At Seattle Airport, the same traveler had a more thorough experience. After showing a United Ostomy Association (UOA) travel card, she was taken to a private room for a full pat-down. The officers swabbed her gloves and hands for explosive residue and asked to visually inspect the pouch, which she agreed to, even though she thought TSA guidelines discouraged it. She thanked the officers and continued to her flight.

- Screening procedures can vary greatly depending on the airport and the staff. Some travelers have passed through large hubs and international airports without any extra screening, while others have been diverted for pat-downs at smaller or less-busy airports. It's wise to be prepared for inconsistency and allow extra time so that a secondary check doesn’t make you late.

- If you refuse or are unable to use the body scanner, expect a pat-down. You can request that this be done in a private room. Officers are generally professional and polite, and presenting a UOA or other medical notification card can help set a positive tone.

- Experiences with visual inspections of the pouch differ. Some travelers have never been asked to show their pouch, while others have been asked almost every time. Most people feel comfortable complying, seeing it as a reasonable security measure, though some view it as an invasion of privacy but still comply, hoping cleanliness will minimize any embarrassment.

- To cope with these situations, carry and present a UOA or similar medical card. Clean or empty the pouch before entering security to reduce discomfort if an inspection is requested. Maintaining a cooperative attitude is also helpful, as many believe that cooperation helps keep all passengers safe.