The topic at hand is about dealing with the issue of "pancaking" in ostomy pouches, where thicker stool sticks at the top of the pouch, causing discomfort and potential leaks. The person experiencing this problem is looking for practical solutions beyond just using lubricants. Here are some helpful tips and insights shared by others:

1. Flush with water:
- For a drainable pouch, tilt the tail upward, add about ¾ cup of warm water, swish it around to dislodge the mass, and then empty it.
- Rinsing with warm water whenever pancaking starts can help keep the bag clean and reduce sticking.

2. Keep air in the pouch / manage filters:
- Not enough air in the pouch can create a vacuum that encourages pancaking. Gently blow air in or trap some air when closing the pouch.
- Integrated charcoal filters can cause air loss; consider covering them with the supplied blue stickers or using a filter-free pouch.

3. Manipulate output through clothing:
- Frequently feel the pouch; when output collects near the stoma, use your fingers (over your clothes) to push or "slice" the stool downward so gravity can help.
- Don’t worry about doing this in public—your comfort is more important than what others might think.

4. Lubricants & additives:
- Baby oil, coconut oil, or commercial lubricants can help stool slide but should be placed near the stoma opening (top of the bag) when applying a new pouch.
- If one lubricant doesn’t work, try a different brand or oil.
- Dropping a small folded cube of toilet paper inside the bag before wearing it can create a sliding surface.

5. Water & diet:
- Increasing fluids and eating foods that soften output can reduce pancaking; very solid foods (like dry granola) can make it worse.

6. Pouch and wafer choices:
- A 2-piece system can make it easier to relieve pancaking without disturbing the wafer.
- Barrier extender strips around the wafer can add security if pancaking occasionally lifts the edges.

7. Empty and “burp” often:
- Empty the pouch frequently and add air or push stool down each time to stay ahead of buildup.

These suggestions aim to provide practical solutions to manage and prevent pancaking, making life a bit easier for those dealing with this issue.