This topic is all about understanding how stomas behave during appliance changes and bag-free showers. It explores whether stomas tend to stay calm or become quite active when the pouch is off. Here are some insights and advice shared by others:

- General patterns:
- Colostomies are often more predictable, while ileostomies and jejunostomies can be active at any time.
- Many find their stoma is quietest before breakfast or a few hours after lunch, though some experience constant output regardless of timing.

- Timing and food tricks to slow output:
- Avoid eating after 9 p.m. and change your appliance before your first meal.
- Eating 3–5 marshmallows 30–60 minutes before changing can help thicken and slow down output.
- Some people take 1 Imodium (loperamide) with marshmallows, which works for many but can increase output for a few.
- Consuming high-starch foods like potatoes, rice, pasta, or pretzels the night before can result in thicker and smaller morning output.
- Avoid certain foods like caffeine, broccoli, cornmeal, cherry tomatoes, whole mushrooms, and grapes before changing. Some find carbonated cola helps clear blockages.

- Physical set-ups and collection aids:
- Change your appliance in the shower, directing the stoma toward the tub, or sit on the toilet with tissue ready.
- Use items like red Solo cups, painter’s cups, urinal bottles, or puppy pads to catch sudden flow.
- Lean forward and gently press around the stoma in the shower to empty any residual output before drying off.

- Products, brands, and accessories:
- The Coloplast SenSura Mio 2-piece high-output pouch is helpful for those who need frequent emptying; flange extenders can add security for watery output.
- Some find Convatec wafers easier on their skin than Coloplast, and vice-versa. Trying free samples can help identify any adhesive reactions.
- Hollister M9 Ostomy Odor Eliminator drops are praised for eliminating smells.
- The frequency of barrier changes varies, with some changing every 4 days and others every other day.

- Skin-care pointers:
- To avoid irritating peristomal skin, peel wafers off slowly, support the skin, and use adhesive-remover wipes if needed.
- If redness persists, try a different brand or apply a thin film of 1% hydrocortisone cream sparingly under the wafer for short-term use.
- Stoma powder or Nystatin powder is only helpful if there is true moisture or yeast; otherwise, consider switching products.

- Coping with “never-quiet” stomas:
- For some, changes can take 2–5 hours. Accept the time it takes, keep supplies within reach, and use absorbent floor mats.
- Naming the stoma and using humor can help ease stress.

- Urostomy-specific tip:
- Continuous urine flow can reach 4–6 inches; stand at a sink or clip a collection bag to your waist during wafer changes.

- Hydration and kidney caution:
- Those with frequent high-output ileostomies should monitor kidney function through periodic bloodwork, especially after episodes of dehydration.