Swimming with an ostomy can be a bit of a challenge, but with the right tools and techniques, it can be a smooth and enjoyable experience. In Australia, there's a handy little "cap" that can be used in place of a full pouch for swimming. Here's how it works:

1. Remove your usual appliance.
2. Apply a new barrier or seal.
3. Attach the cap, which functions like a mini-pouch.
4. Go for a swim.
5. After swimming, switch back to your regular appliance, or sooner if your stoma tends to empty unpredictably.

Here are some additional tips and insights to help you manage swimming with an ostomy:

- **Wear-Time for Ileostomy Pouches**: Most people with an ileostomy find they can keep a pouch on for 3 to 4 days, and some even manage 6 to 7 days without skin issues. Changing your pouch daily or twice daily might be too frequent and could irritate your skin.

- **Drainable vs. Closed & 1-Piece vs. 2-Piece Systems**: A 2-piece system allows you to swap to a stoma cap or mini-pouch without removing the wafer, with many users reporting 4 to 7 days of wear-time with healthy skin. Salts Healthcare offers a very small 1-piece drainable bag that's almost the size of a cap.

- **Products to Keep the Appliance On in Water**: Consider using Coloplast half-moon wafer extenders or other adhesive strips to secure the edges of the wafer. Neoprene support belts or wraps, like those from StealthBelt, are recommended for swimming and other water activities. Waterproof film dressings can also provide an extra seal.

- **Barrier Rings & Skin Prep**: A good barrier ring, such as Coloplast Brava Cera, can help prevent leaks. Make sure to apply the ring and wafer to clean, oil-free skin and warm them to improve adhesion. If you still experience lifting, try skin-prep wipes, adhesive spray, or different ring thicknesses.

- **Sampling & Trial-and-Error**: Request free samples from various manufacturers to find a combination that withstands full immersion. Changing your technique, like thoroughly drying and warming the wafer, and holding it in place for a minute or two, can significantly improve adhesion.

- **General Tips**: Empty your pouch before swimming to reduce weight. After swimming, rinse off chlorine, pat the wafer dry, and either leave the appliance on if it's still well-sealed or change to a fresh pouch. If your stoma is near your navel, trim extenders or waterproof film to avoid creasing into the belly-button.

By exploring these options and finding what works best for you, swimming with an ostomy can become a worry-free part of your routine.