This topic is about using disposable cups as temporary stoma covers while showering. The idea is to keep the stoma dry and avoid the hassle of cleaning up after a shower without an appliance. Here are some helpful insights and advice shared by others:

1. The originator uses a small bathroom paper cup, like those from Dixie or Solo, secured with a bit of stoma paste over the flange. This keeps the pouch dry and prevents water from reaching the stoma.

2. They mention that their stoma has almost constant output, and they are tired of cleaning the shower after appliance-free showers. They find the cup idea to be a clever solution to avoid wet pouches and shower clean-up.

3. Water on the pouch is generally harmless. Ostomy nurses often say that modern 1- and 2-piece systems are designed to withstand getting wet, so showering or swimming doesn’t weaken the adhesive. Many people shower and swim with their pouches on without any issues.

4. Some people prefer showering without an appliance to let their skin breathe. They usually change their full appliance 1-2 times a week and take a completely naked shower during that time, which helps prevent skin dryness. Early-morning showers before eating or drinking often coincide with minimal stoma activity.

5. To handle unexpected output while showering without an appliance, keep a towel nearby. Pat the stoma area first, then use kitchen or toilet paper to catch any sudden discharge while drying off. A wad of kitchen paper can stick to the moist stoma and contain small amounts of output until a new pouch is applied.

6. There are variations on the cup idea. Some use painter’s cups or small plastic pitchers with handles, which can be held under the stoma. Slipping the handle under an ostomy belt provides hands-free support. Another person cut the plastic flange area from a Hollister pouch, attached a belt, and snapped a correctly sized plastic cup into it for secure coverage. For those who dislike cleaning a cup, disposable paper towels or toilet tissue might be simpler, though they need replacing if output is heavy.

7. If output is frequent or unpredictable, like with high-output ileostomies or bile, keeping the pouch on might save you from repeated clean-up. Saran-wrap or full-torso plastic coverings are generally seen as more trouble than they’re worth. Always have the new pouch, wafer, or seal ready before turning off the water to minimize time with an uncovered stoma.