This topic is about a new ostomate who is experiencing some challenges after surgery, particularly with a stoma that moves a lot and issues with nighttime leaks. She is looking for reassurance and practical solutions to manage these concerns.

Here are some helpful insights and advice:

1. It's normal for a stoma to move. The movement is due to intestinal peristalsis, which makes the bowel contract and extend, similar to how an earthworm moves.

2. To reduce leaks, focus on optimizing the seal:
- Clean the skin around the stoma with non-perfumed, non-moisturizing soap, and ensure it is completely dry before applying the appliance.
- Cut the wafer or flange opening to fit snugly around the stoma, and re-measure often as the stoma size can change in the first few weeks.
- A layering sequence that many find effective includes using a Skin-Prep wipe, followed by an Eakin Cohesive Seal instead of paste, then the flange. Apply hand pressure for several minutes to secure it.
- Apply the appliance at bedtime and consider using a light elastic or ostomy belt overnight to help the adhesive set while you sleep.

3. Convexity can be helpful if the stoma is flush with the skin or sits in a crease. ConvaTec convex self-adhesive wafers are one option.

4. Manage pouch volume at night:
- For a urostomy, connect to a large bedside drainage bag.
- For an ileostomy, set an alarm to wake up once during the night to empty the pouch before it overfills.

5. Use mirrors and vision aids:
- Mount a mirror at abdomen height or use a free-standing travel mirror to see the stoma without bending your neck.
- If you have significant visual impairment, consider ordering wafers with pre-cut openings larger than the stoma to make it easier to center by touch. Protect any exposed skin with Skin-Prep or a similar product.

6. Track wear-time by marking pouch change dates on a calendar. This can help you spot patterns and establish a routine.

7. If leaks continue, schedule another evaluation with a wound, ostomy, and continence (WOC) nurse. Continue home-health visits until you feel confident in changing the system.

8. Keep contact numbers for local hospital wound-ostomy nurses handy. Introducing yourself before emergencies can make getting advice quicker.

9. General wellness tips include using Emergen-C and double-packet Carnation Instant Breakfast for extra vitamins and minerals during recovery. Engaging in music or other relaxing activities can help ease anxiety.

10. Peer-support resources are available, such as the DailyStrength MS group and the UK Ileostomy Association website and forums.