This topic is about dealing with leaks that occur under the wafer after ileostomy surgery. The person experiencing this issue is three weeks post-surgery and is seeking advice on how to stop the leakage. Here are some practical suggestions that might help:

1. **Check Fit & Sizing**
- Measure your stoma each time you change the wafer, as it can shrink over the first few weeks.
- Cut the wafer hole to fit snugly around the stoma without leaving gaps or exposing skin. Both too small and too large cuts can lead to leaks.
- If cutting is challenging, consider using factory-pre-cut wafers.
- Leave a little air in the pouch to avoid a vacuum seal around the stoma.

2. **Try Different Wafer/Pouch Styles**
- Many people find that convex wafers or convex systems seal better than flat ones, especially in the early months.
- Consider moldable barriers, which can be requested as free samples from companies like ConvaTec and Hollister.
- Some brands that have worked for others include Hollister, Coloplast, and products like Adapt barrier rings and Nu-Hope support belts.

3. **Improve Skin Preparation & Wafer Application**
- Clean the skin around the stoma with warm water. If using soap, choose mild, unscented options like Dial White or Ivory, and avoid lotions or conditioners.
- Ensure all adhesive remover residue is gone before applying a new wafer.
- Warm the wafer with your hands or body heat and press it firmly for a few minutes to ensure a good seal.
- Apply a barrier ring or paste around the flange opening, adding extra bits where leaks often occur.
- Use skin-prep wipes or spray and ostomy powder if the skin is irritated.

4. **Added Sealing & Support**
- Use Coloplast elastic tape XL around the flange to catch any seepage.
- Consider an ostomy support belt, such as those from Hollister or Nu-Hope, especially during physical activity.

5. **Output Consistency & Stoma Behavior**
- In the early weeks, output can be watery. Eating foods like bananas, rice, peanut butter, applesauce, marshmallows, or fruit smoothies can help thicken it.
- Some people take a generic Imodium (loperamide) daily or other doctor-prescribed anti-diarrheals to slow output.
- Sleeping on the side opposite the stoma can help prevent pooling around the wafer.

6. **Professional Help**
- If leaks continue, consider booking an appointment with an ostomy nurse to review your wafer fit, pouch type, skin contour, and overall routine.

These strategies, including accurate sizing, experimenting with different systems, careful skin preparation, additional sealing products, support belts, output-thickening, and professional guidance, have been effective for many in stopping early post-ileostomy wafer leaks.