Finding the right ostomy guard that is both affordable and comfortable can be a bit of a challenge, especially if you want to wear regular pants like jeans or trousers. If you're dealing with an ileostomy that sits right where your pants press on the pouch, it can restrict drainage and make things uncomfortable. Here are some ideas and tips that might help:
1. DIY Options:
- Some people create their own guards using inexpensive materials like 90-degree waste-pipe bends, custom-cut plastic, or even the upper toe section of old Croc-type shoes. This allows you to customize the size and shape to fit your needs without spending a lot of money.
2. Check Insurance or Health Plan Pricing:
- In the U.S., you might be able to reduce the cost by filing through your insurance, even if the guard isn't fully covered. It's worth checking with your provider to see what options are available.
3. Wear the Pouch Outside Your Pants:
- To avoid compression, you can keep the bag over the waistband. An ostomy wrap with an internal pocket, like those from Ostomy Secrets, can help conceal and support the pouch while you wear your regular trousers.
4. Budget-Priced Guard on Amazon:
- One person found a functional stoma guard for $21.99 on Amazon. The brand wasn't specified, but it's a more affordable option compared to others.
5. Stealth Belt as an Alternative Support System:
- Stealth Belts, available in horizontal or vertical models, can keep the pouch secure and distribute pressure evenly. They range from $60 to $120 and are known to last 6-7 years. They are comfortable for activities like mountain climbing and hiking, and many users can tuck in a shirt while wearing a horizontal model.
6. 3-D Printing:
- While 3-D printing could be a future solution for custom guards, the current cost of equipment and materials is still high for individual users.
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