If you've recently had an ileostomy and are finding it tricky to choose clothes that comfortably and discreetly cover your new pouch, you're not alone. Here are some practical tips and suggestions to help you feel more at ease with your wardrobe choices:

- High-rise stretchy bottoms can be a great option. Consider maternity pants with a high, forgiving panel paired with a slightly loose top. Yoga pants, tracksuits, wind pants with elastic waists, and sweatpants are also good choices. Try to avoid buttons and zippers that might draw attention to the bag.

- You might want to size up on buttery-soft high-waisted leggings, which you can find on Amazon for around $10. Pair these with long, loose shirts. Similar affordable options are available at stores like Costco, BJ’s, and Walmart.

- Support garments or shapewear can help smooth the pouch and provide light support. Spanx-like underwear or "shapewear knickers" are popular choices. You can find these on Amazon or at stores like TJ Maxx and Nordstrom Rack. Ostomy wraps, such as those from OstomySecrets, come with an internal pocket and can be a good alternative to buying new clothes. Keep in mind that shapewear often becomes more comfortable about 6–8 weeks after surgery, so be patient and prioritize comfort early on.

- There are also specialized websites for ostomy clothing and support wear, such as ostomyclothingcompany.com, ostomysecrets.com, comfizz.com, tytex.com/products, cuiwear.com, and movibrace.us.

- For swimwear, high-waisted swimsuit bottoms from Lands’ End can effectively cover and support the pouch.

- To manage any concerns about odor, consider using M9 Odor Eliminator, which can boost your confidence when wearing closer-fitting clothes.

- Remember, the pouch is usually less noticeable to others than it is to you. Finding the right garments is a personal journey and might involve some trial and error. Many people find that by around six months post-surgery, they can wear almost anything without the pouch being visible.