This topic is all about getting comfortable with colostomy irrigation, which can be a bit of a journey. The poster is sharing their experiences and seeking advice on how to manage leaks, cramping, and getting their stoma to cooperate. Here are some helpful tips and insights from the discussion:

1. Sleeve Attachment & Support
- Don't just rely on the click-ring to keep the sleeve attached. An ostomy belt can provide extra security.
- Try rolling the bottom of the sleeve up to about 12 inches (30 cm) and securing it with clothespins. This way, the plastic bears the weight, not the pins.
- Some people convert the sleeve into a temporary "bag" for walking or overnight use. Drain and rinse it completely, expel any air, deodorize, fold it in layers, and then clamp it with a freezer-bag seal or clothespins instead of the supplied clip.

2. Water Temperature & Cramping
- If you experience cramping, the irrigation water might be too cool. Aim for body temperature, around 98.6 °F (37 °C).
- The Coloplast Irrigation Kit comes with a temperature gauge, but you can also use a kitchen thermometer. Make sure to fill and infuse promptly so the water doesn't cool down.

3. Seating & Positioning
- Sitting far back on the toilet bowl, with the normal seat removed, can give you extra space for the sleeve to hang straight into the water.
- Having comfort items like a book or laptop can help you relax and avoid tensing up. Letting the stoma work on its own usually yields better results.

4. Timing & Stimulation
- You can expect the main return within an hour, though some people may need up to two hours.
- After removing the cone, leave the sleeve on, close the tail, and have a light meal and warm drink like coffee, tea, or cocoa to stimulate any remaining peristalsis.
- If you prefer, you can keep the converted sleeve-bag on overnight as a precaution. Most users report little or no further output, mainly just gas.

5. General Expectations
- A forceful initial "burst" is normal. It's common to have reduced but continued output for several weeks, as every stoma has its own schedule.
- Even after months of success, fluctuations can happen due to diet, hydration, or no apparent reason. Persistence and minor adjustments in water temperature, volume, and timing usually help establish a manageable routine.

6. Key Products Mentioned
- Coloplast Irrigation Kit, which includes a built-in temperature gauge.

The key takeaway is to experiment, be patient, and keep at it. The freedom from daily pouch changes and toilet anxiety is well worth the effort.