Managing continuous stoma output during bag and barrier changes can be a bit challenging, especially if you're new to having an ostomy. If you're finding it tricky to keep your stoma from emptying while you're changing your pouch and skin barrier, you're not alone. Here are some practical tips and insights that might help you manage this process a little more smoothly:

1. Timing the change:
- Try changing your appliance immediately upon waking up, before your bowel activity starts.
- If mornings tend to be active for you, choose a time of day when your output is usually at its lowest.
- Avoid eating for at least two hours before changing your appliance. Some people find it helpful to avoid eating late at night altogether.

2. Diet tricks to slow output temporarily:
- Eating four regular marshmallows about five minutes before changing your appliance can help reduce flow for about 15-20 minutes.
- Peanut butter and bananas are also known to thicken or slow down output.
- Keep track of which foods affect your stoma's output, as results can vary from person to person.

3. Learn your rhythm:
- Maintain a diary to track your food intake and the timing of your stoma output.
- Most ileostomy output occurs 4-6 hours after eating, which can help you plan your changes.
- Be patient during the first couple of months post-surgery, as your body's patterns may be unpredictable at first but will likely improve over time.

4. Practical change-table tips:
- Lay out all your supplies and precut them before removing your pouch.
- Keep paper towels or wipes nearby to quickly manage any unexpected output.
- Understand that a few drops are normal; focus on working quickly rather than waiting for the output to stop completely.

5. Perspective and patience:
- Remember that everyone's stoma behaves differently, so it might take some experimenting to find what works best for you.
- With practice, your skills and speed will improve. Many experienced ileostomates can complete a full change in under five minutes.

These tips are meant to help make the process a bit easier and less stressful as you adjust to life with an ostomy.