Marks & Spencer has introduced a new line of women's underwear in the UK, known as "stoma knickers." These are designed to accommodate a stoma pouch, making life a bit easier for those who have a stoma. The underwear is available in various sizes and colors, and it has sparked conversations about whether clothing specifically for stoma users is becoming more mainstream. Here are some details and insights about this new product:

- Product Details:
- The underwear is branded as "stoma knickers" by M&S.
- It features a full-width internal pocket to hold the pouch flat against the body.
- Made from cotton-rich fabric, it comes in both Standard and Brazilian cuts.
- Currently, it is only available in black, and many sizes have sold out online, with a note that over 100 have been purchased in the last 48 hours.
- The idea for these knickers came from an M&S employee who has a stoma.

- Fit and Comfort Feedback:
- A user with a low stoma finds the knickers significantly improve comfort.
- Another user, who ordered a very large size, finds them extremely tight and difficult to breathe in.
- A third wearer mentions that the high, firm waistband pushes the pouch upward and the overall fit feels tight. Male users might need to trim the decorative lace to prevent snags.

- Comparative and Critical Viewpoints:
- Some feel the design resembles regular knickers repackaged for ostomates and advise careful inspection before purchasing.
- Others appreciate the garment as the first mainstream line that offers support, comfort, and aesthetics at an affordable price.

- Alternative Underwear Ideas:
- Unisex G-strings can be suitable for certain stoma placements.
- A humorous find during searches was an Amazon listing for "Real Men Enhancing Underwear Briefs," though these are not designed for stomas.

- Market Context and Statistics:
- It's estimated that about 1 in 350 people in the UK live with a stoma, which might explain the increased availability of such products there.