This topic is about dealing with soreness around the stoma, ensuring the barrier adheres well, and accurately measuring the hole in the ostomy bag. The person sharing their experience has been struggling with a persistent sore spot where the stoma meets the skin for nearly two years. They have tried various products and methods to find relief and improve adhesion. Additionally, they face challenges with changing stoma size due to weight fluctuations, which affects how they cut the pouch hole. They are seeking advice on products that heal the skin while maintaining good adhesion and tips for accurately measuring the stoma.

Here are some helpful insights and advice shared by others:

- Creating an accurate template:
1. Measure the horizontal diameter of the stoma, take a photo, and enlarge it on a computer until the print-out matches the measurement. Use this as a template.
2. Use masking tape around the stoma, lift it off, and trace onto clear plastic to create a master template.
3. Trim thin paper or the pouch backing plate until it fits perfectly, then save it for future use.
4. Consider switching to pre-cut wafers from the manufacturer or using a hand-held hole-punch tool available online.
5. Re-measure the stoma monthly, as weight changes can affect its size. A stoma nurse can also help create an exact template during a visit.

- Products and techniques for healing sore skin while ensuring strong adhesion:
1. Use Stomahesive paste (ConvaTec) on the sore spot before applying a barrier ring.
2. Lightly dust Stomahesive powder, fan off the excess, dab with Skin Tac, and apply the appliance as usual.
3. Try Domeboro Astringent Solution packets for daily soaks, followed by a vinegar-and-water soak if needed. Ensure the skin is completely dry before applying the ring or wafer.
4. Brava Protective Rings (Coloplast) have kept some users sore-free.
5. Skin-prep wipes or sprays from various brands have eliminated irritation for several people.
6. Use Dermol 500 lotion for washing, followed by a thin layer of Sudocrem, blot, and then apply the pouch.
7. Adapt Cera Ring (Hollister) with a ConvaTec Active Life convex pouch can provide a long-lasting seal without extra barriers.

- Application and removal tips:
1. If only one area is red, it might be due to seepage rather than an allergy. Gas in the pouch can lift the ring. Mark the wafer top with a Sharpie before removal, flip it over, and check for dampness to confirm a leak path.
2. Change the pouch more frequently until the sore heals.
3. Always dry the skin thoroughly before applying rings or wafers.
4. Use ostomy adhesive-remover wipes or spray when removing the pouch to avoid damaging the skin.

- When to escalate:
1. If the stoma nurse's measures do not work, consider asking for a referral to a dermatologist for persistent skin issues.