Living with a stoma can bring up questions about how comfortable you feel showing your stoma and pouch to others. Some people wonder whether to keep it hidden or to embrace it openly. Here are some thoughts and advice from others who have been in similar situations:

- People have different comfort levels. Some don't mind if their pouch is visible at the gym or pool, while others prefer the privacy of a changing room.
- The setting can make a difference. Being around partners or close friends might feel okay, but being exposed in public could lead to unwanted attention or even end up on social media.
- Using pouch covers with fun patterns or colors can make the appliance look less medical and might even start conversations. Support belts or non-skin-colored bags can also help disguise the medical look.
- It's a good idea to empty your pouch before activities like swimming or sunbathing to avoid it looking like a "water-balloon."
- Some pouches, like those from Hollister, can become see-through when wet, so swimmers might prefer using a cover or belt for privacy.
- Showing your appliance to curious friends, co-workers, or children can help educate them and make the stoma feel more normal. It can also boost confidence, especially for kids, if they see adults being open and positive about their bodies.
- Be mindful of the messages you send about body image, especially around children, as they might have their own scars one day.
- Cultural and personal backgrounds can greatly influence how people feel about communal nudity, so it's important to respect everyone's comfort levels.
- While it's important to be confident, flashing your stoma in public just to shock others is generally seen as impolite. Finding a balance between discretion and confidence is key.