This topic revolves around the public display of an ostomy bag and the feelings of comfort, courtesy, or indifference that come with it. The originator of the discussion has been living with an ostomy bag for many years and is curious about how others handle the visibility of their bags in public settings. Here are some insights and advice shared by others:

- Many people prefer to keep their ostomy bags covered to avoid making others uncomfortable or changing social dynamics. They see this as a matter of courtesy rather than shame.
- Some individuals choose to display their bags openly when questioned, using it as an opportunity to educate others and emphasize that the appliance is life-saving.
- There is a cautionary note that exposing the bag can sometimes make onlookers uncomfortable and increase the risk of accidental snags or leaks.

Clothing and cover-up tips include:

1. High-waist boxing shorts can help keep the bag hidden while allowing you to remove your shirt in hot weather.
2. Tight minis, high-rise skirts, or a wide belt can conceal and secure the pouch.
3. Cotton pouch covers can soften noise and hide the contents.
4. For beaches or pools, stoma caps are available in flesh tones, and some people use absorbent pads or stoma caps beneath a wide belt for discretion.

Managing public scrutiny and reactions:

- Educating curious observers can turn disgust into interest and raise awareness about conditions like bowel disease and Crohn’s.
- Sharing experiences, such as showing an empty bag to a skeptical bus driver, can help in gaining understanding and improving interactions.
- Some friendships may change after surgery, and revealing the bag can affect social dynamics.

Travel and security:

- Airport and customs staff are generally cooperative once the pouch is explained, and pat-downs usually end without needing to expose skin.
- A gas-filled pouch might trigger extra screening, but a calm explanation typically resolves the situation.

Relationship and intimacy:

- Partners who truly care are usually unfazed by the appliance, and confidence, along with strategic clothing choices, can help during intimate moments.

Nightmares and dreams:

- Many people report having recurring dreams about their pouches over-filling and causing public disasters, indicating a common anxiety among ostomates.

Leak and odor worries:

- Keeping pouches or caps emptied and clean can minimize noise, bulge, and smell.
- Some prefer the security of clothing to contain any potential leaks, which are sometimes inevitable.

Manufacturers and products mentioned include Hollister and Coloplast stoma caps, as well as ostomy belts and cummerbunds.