Topic Explanation:
The discussion revolves around the use of barrier rings with convex pouches for individuals who have a flat stoma. The original poster is seeking advice on whether using barrier rings, specifically flat CeraRings by Hollister, is beneficial or detrimental in managing a flat stoma. They mention issues with pancaking and discomfort around the stoma area, and they are considering whether the barrier ring might be exacerbating these issues.

Advice and Insights from Replies:
1. Use of Barrier Rings with Different Stoma Types:
- Some users find barrier rings essential to prevent leaks, especially when the stoma is irregularly shaped or flat. The ring helps in snugly fitting the barrier against the stoma, providing immediate protection from liquid output.
- Others have experienced the barrier rings melting away or not providing the intended support, suggesting that effectiveness can vary based on individual circumstances and possibly the type of products used.

2. Adjustments and Alternatives:
- One user suggested measuring the thickness of the barrier and ring before and after use to understand how much they swell, which can help in deciding whether to use a ring or not.
- Flattening the barrier ring before application was recommended by a user to ensure a tighter fit around the stoma.
- Experimenting with different sizes and thicknesses of rings, such as switching from a thick to a thin ring, might provide better results.
- Some users have successfully switched back to flat bags without a ring after trying convex bags with a ring, indicating that personal trial and error can be crucial.

3. Personal Experiences and Recommendations:
- Several users emphasized the importance of personal experimentation, as individual experiences with barrier rings can vary widely. What works for one person might not work for another.
- One user mentioned that switching from a flat wafer to a convex one was a game-changer, highlighting the importance of finding the right combination of products.
- Another user shared that they stopped using barrier rings altogether after finding them messy and ineffective, and they have not experienced leaks since.

4. Maintenance and Care:
- Discussions about the barrier ring's interaction with water and its integrity post-rinsing were mixed, with some users noting no issues while others observed melting or disintegration.
- It was suggested that environmental factors like water quality might affect the durability and effectiveness of barrier rings.

In summary, while barrier rings can be beneficial for some stoma