The topic is about dealing with a common issue faced by people with ostomies called "pancaking." This happens when stool becomes pasty and sticks around the stoma instead of sliding down to the bottom of the pouch. Here are some practical tips and advice to help manage and prevent this issue:

1. Use inexpensive lubricants: Instead of costly commercial sprays, try using a few drops of baby oil, olive oil, plain vegetable oil, or any light household oil to lubricate the pouch.

2. Leave some air in the pouch: Before sealing the pouch, leave a little air inside to create a slight "balloon" effect, which can help prevent the stool from sticking to the stoma.

3. Break in new pouches: Pancaking can be worse with a brand-new, completely flat pouch. It often improves after the pouch has been worn for a day or two.

4. Rinse the pouch: When pancaking starts, rinse or "wash" the drainable pouch with warm water and add fresh lubricant. This is more cost-effective than changing pouches frequently. Be careful not to soak the vent filter.

5. Adjust stool consistency:
- Use softening agents like generic stool softeners or a daily capful of MIRALAX to reduce stickiness.
- Ensure adequate fluid intake, especially in hot weather, by drinking plenty of water.
- For some, adding fiber through foods like oatmeal, fibrous vegetables, or high-fiber wraps can help produce more formed stool that doesn't pancake.

6. Consider mechanical aids:
- The Salts Healthcare "Dermacol" stoma collar can guide output away from the stoma.
- DIY stoma guards or collars can be made using a plastic bottle cap, O-ring, and baseplate to hold the stoma snugly and channel output downward.

7. Explore insurance options: If you have insurance, check if ostomy lubricant can be included in your prescription supply.

8. Manage pouch changes: While changing bags more frequently might sometimes be necessary, rinsing and lubricating can help extend wear time and save on costs.