This topic is about dealing with nighttime "pancaking" and leakage issues with an ostomy pouch. Pancaking happens when the pouch sticks to itself, causing output to build up and potentially lead to leaks. Here are some practical tips and advice to help manage this issue:

1. Keep the pouch off the stoma:
- Leave a bit of air in the pouch before sealing it to prevent the plastic from pressing against the stoma.
- Try not to sleep on the side where your stoma is located. Instead, sleep on your back or the opposite side to reduce pressure on the pouch.

2. Increase stool firmness:
- Incorporate more fiber into your diet to change the consistency of your output. Consider eating oatmeal daily, adding fibrous vegetables to each meal, or using high-fiber wraps like Mission Carb Balance wraps. Firmer stool is less likely to cause pancaking.

3. Lubricate the pouch:
- Use a small amount of vegetable oil, such as olive oil, to coat the inside of the pouch. This is a cost-effective alternative to commercial lubricants. After adding oil and air, gently tip and rub the pouch to ensure the stoma-facing surface is well covered.

4. Rinse instead of changing:
- If pancaking begins, drain the pouch and add a little hot water. Swish it around to clean out sticky output, then rinse and relubricate. This method saves supplies, but be careful to keep water away from the vent filter to avoid odor issues.

5. Mechanical/physical aids:
- Consider using a Salts Dermacol stoma collar, which is available in various sizes and can help keep the stoma away from the pouch wall. Accurate stoma measurement is important.
- You can also try custom DIY solutions like handmade baseplates or shaped cradles to keep the stoma more firmly projected.

6. Barrier products:
- Switching from paste to barrier rings can help maintain a tight seal. Many users report no leaks when using standard bags with a barrier ring.

7. General notes:
- Pancaking is more common with soft output. If your stool is already firm, focus on ensuring there is enough air in the pouch, using lubrication, and adjusting your sleeping position.
- Caked output can clog vent filters and cause odor, so keeping the pouch interior clean and lubricated is important.