This topic is about finding ways to prevent leaks from an ileostomy or colostomy during sleep. Bill, who has a colostomy and will soon have a temporary ileostomy, has been dealing with nighttime leaks and is considering using a recliner chair to help with this issue. Here are some helpful tips and insights shared by others who have faced similar challenges:

1. Sleeping position is important:
- Lying flat on your back can cause output to pool around the stoma, which might weaken the seal.
- Sleeping on your right side with the pouch angled about 45° toward your right hip can help the output fall directly into the bag.
- Some find comfort sleeping on their left side (with the stoma on the right) and drawing up the right knee to make room for the pouch.
- Everyone is different; some people can sleep on their back or sides without any issues.

2. Experiences with recliners:
- Many people have successfully used recliners for months or even years, experiencing few or no leaks, as gravity helps keep output away from the barrier.
- Recliners can limit movement, so if you tend to toss and turn, they might not be comfortable.
- A riser/recliner chair allowed one person to sleep on their back for over a year with only occasional minor leaks.
- Some prefer recliners because lying flat can be uncomfortable or bring back memories of hospital stays, though it can be challenging to sleep away from home.

3. Pouch orientation:
- Rotating the pouch about 45° to the side instead of letting it hang straight down has significantly reduced leaks for several people, both in bed and in recliners.

4. Night-time emptying:
- Be prepared to get up at least once during the night to release gas or empty the pouch, especially if you have an ileostomy.

5. Skin preparation and application tips to reduce leaks:
- Try to avoid using extra ostomy glues or adhesives, as moisture under the barrier is a major risk for leaks.
- One routine that works for a user includes showering, shaving, and thoroughly washing the skin around the stoma, blow-drying the area completely, applying the appliance, and reinforcing the outer edge with IV plastic adhesive covers.
- Avoid using alcohol to clean around the stoma, as it can irritate the skin and is generally not recommended by doctors.