This topic is about finding a balance between comfort, fashion, and concealment for someone with an ileostomy. An 18-year-old woman, who recently had an ileostomy, is trying to figure out how to dress comfortably and stylishly while managing her pouch. She is also dealing with family discomfort and societal reactions, which makes her question how much she should hide her pouch. Here are some helpful insights and advice from others who have been in similar situations:

1. Acceptance and Confidence
- Many people find that over time, they stop worrying about hiding their pouch, as most people don't notice or comment on it.
- Activities like changing at the gym, swimming, or running with the pouch visible rarely attract questions.

2. Belts, Guards, and Wraps
- Stealth Belt Company offers belts that keep the pouch secure for everyday activities, sports, and swimming. Turning the pouch sideways can work well with these belts.
- Stoma guards worn under a snug hernia belt can flatten the pouch's profile while still allowing drainage.
- OstomySecrets provides garments with built-in pouch pockets and light tummy control, including lacy wraps and formal wear.
- Compression shirts can help flatten the pouch without restricting flow.

3. Clothing Strategies
- Empty the pouch every 1–2 hours to minimize bulging.
- Wear the pouch inside underwear or jeans, letting it hang down the pant leg. Some people tuck just the bottom half through underwear or leggings.
- Skirts with tights or pantyhose can support the pouch without squeezing it. Tiered or elastic-waist skirts from stores like Old Navy or Target work well.
- Dark colors, busy patterns, pleats, gathers, and longer or layered sweaters can help distract from the waist area.
- Off-the-shoulder or oversized sweaters paired with fitted jeans or skirts can keep outfits feminine while hiding the pouch.
- Maternity jeans or elastic-waist jeans can provide stretchy fabric over the stoma, avoiding tight waistbands.
- Form-fitting stretchy pants pulled over the pouch can secure it, and tops that flare below the bust can help mask the pouch as it fills.
- Petite individuals often find that regular-length tops provide extra coverage.
- Mersea brand tops and tiered skirts are mentioned as comfortable, loose options.
- For DIY clothing alterations, visit http://www.stomaatje.com/clothing.html.
- For inspiration, check out the fashion blog Uncover Ostomy at uncoverostomy.org.

4. Leakage and Skin-Care Tips
- Use Hollister stoma powder on irritated skin, seal with barrier wipes, and apply Hollister medical adhesive spray. Hold the flange firmly for 60 seconds.
- Stoma rings and barrier paste around the opening can act like caulk, with many achieving up to 7-day wear.
- Convex two-piece systems can help with flush or retracted stomas. Cymed MicroSkin pouches and pre-cut bags may improve adhesion.
- Showering at each change can help cleanse the skin from acidic ileostomy output.

5. Other Products Mentioned
- Stealth Belt (available in horizontal or vertical models)
- Hollister adhesive spray and stoma powder
- Cymed MicroSkin system
- Clothing retailers like Motherhood Maternity, Old Navy, Target, and Mersea.