This topic is all about finding practical solutions for emptying an ileostomy pouch that is positioned high on the abdomen, specifically above and slightly to the right of the navel. This can be a bit tricky, especially when the toilet setup at home isn't ideal. Here are some helpful tips and insights shared by others who have faced similar challenges:

1. Kneeling Options:
- Kneel in front of the toilet to empty the pouch straight down. Use foam gardening pads, rolled towels, or a "sock ball" under your knees for comfort.
- Try kneeling on one knee and use both hands on the sides of the bowl to help you stand up safely.
- Some people let the pouch hang into the water to minimize splashing.

2. Toilet Replacement or Modification:
- Consider installing a chair-height, elongated toilet. Kohler models are recommended and cost around $230–240. This setup provides more space for sitting forward.
- An open-front elongated seat can offer even more clearance.
- If replacing the toilet isn't an option, consult a plumber about adding an elongated bowl to your existing setup.

3. Small Furniture and DIY Aids:
- Use a four-legged or folding stool, a child’s potty, or a hinged shelf attached to the vanity at the pouch height.
- A handy friend or relative could build a narrow, custom funnel or shelf to direct output into the toilet.
- Consider modifying the sink or bidet with a self-sealing waste valve to empty the pouch without odor issues.

4. Alternative Receptacles:
- Use a triangular 1-liter urine-measurement container, deli tub, cut-off water bottle, or Ziploc bag to empty the pouch, then pour and flush.
- A child’s potty can be useful for wheelchair users.
- Keep a water bottle nearby to rinse the pouch before pouring.

5. Longer or Different Pouches:
- Hollister offers a 16-inch high-output pouch. Convatec and Coloplast also have high-output styles, though slightly shorter.
- Request free samples from manufacturers to test different lengths and outlet styles.
- Use a rubber band to loop from a belt hole around the Hollister high-output plug to shorten the hanging length without reducing capacity.

6. Irrigation Sleeves and Tubing:
- Attach a Coloplast or Hollister irrigation sleeve under the regular pouch. The long tube reaches directly into the bowl, reducing spatter.
- Use protective sprays to prevent skin reactions to the sleeve adhesive.

7. Disposable and Two-Piece Options:
- Surgeons can prescribe two-piece disposable pouches to avoid awkward emptying. Detach, seal in an odor-proof bag, and discard.
- Clip-less Velcro two-piece systems are preferred by some for easier cleaning and less leaking.

8. Posture Variations:
- Sit facing the tank (straddle backwards) to lean further forward.
- Stand in front or slightly to the side of the bowl when space allows. Line the water with toilet paper first to reduce splash.

9. Comfort and Clothing:
- White Rose underwear with an internal pouch pocket can prevent rubbing and offer extra security when the output hangs higher.

10. Commercial Devices:
- The OPODD hands-free emptying aid is available, but some find simpler methods more cost-effective.

11. Disposal Etiquette:
- Sealed black Ostaway zip-lock bags are odor-proof and can be discreetly discarded in any trash receptacle. Most people find this method unobtrusive.