This topic is about dealing with stoma output that tends to stick to the stoma instead of sliding down into the pouch. If you're experiencing this, you're not alone, and there are several ways to manage it. Here are some helpful tips and insights:

1. Break the vacuum in the pouch:
- After emptying your pouch, gently blow or squeeze a little air into it. This prevents the sides from sticking together and helps the output move to the bottom.
- Some people find it helpful to open their drainable pouch while seated, let some air in, and then close it, allowing the output to fall away.

2. Lubricate the inside of the pouch:
- You can add a small amount of baby oil, mineral oil, olive oil, vegetable oil, or a commercial "lubricant-deodorant" after each emptying. About 2 teaspoons or 10 ml is usually enough.
- Keep in mind that spray lubricants might not work for everyone, so you may need to experiment to find what works best for you.
- Some people avoid oils because they worry it might loosen the wafer, while others have no issues.

3. Rinse with warm water:
- At each emptying, squirt a little warm water into the pouch, swish it around to clean the stoma and the inside of the bag, then drain it.
- Be careful not to overfill or squeeze too hard to avoid water leaking under the wafer.

4. Use Salts Demacol stoma collars:
- These collars fit snugly around the stoma, protect the skin around it, and guide the output directly into the pouch.
- They come in various sizes, so getting the right fit is important. Free samples and fitting advice are available, especially in the U.K., Canada, and Australia. In the U.S., you might need to order online.

5. Adjust the consistency of the output:
- If your output is chronically thick and sticks, Lactulose syrup (10–15 ml twice daily) can help by softening the stool. The dosage can vary for each person.
- Remember to maintain adequate fluid intake.

6. Appliance tips and protective measures:
- A convex wafer or a fold-over style pouch can help direct the output downward.
- If the output collects near the stoma, gently push it toward the bottom of the bag with your fingers.
- Keep the output off the skin around the stoma, as prolonged contact can erode the wafer and irritate the skin.
- Some people use half of a 4 × 4.5 inch IV dressing to frame the wafer for extra security and protection from sweat.
- Typical wear time for appliances is reported to be 5–7 days, and it's best to change them during a low-output part of your personal cycle.

7. Alternative viewpoints:
- Some people prefer to swish only with water and avoid oils or adhesives, believing that extra products might increase the risk of leaks and skin problems.
- Others note that even with good hydration, high output viscosity can still cause pressure leaks, so ongoing monitoring is important.