Swimming with a new ostomy can be a bit daunting, especially when it comes to deciding whether you need to change your pouch after taking a dip. Here are some helpful tips and insights from fellow ostomates to make your swimming experience more enjoyable and worry-free:

- Frequency of Change:
- Some swimmers prefer to change their appliance after every swim, whether in a pool or open water.
- Others stick to their regular schedule, changing the pouch every 5 to 8 days, to avoid skin irritation and extra costs from frequent changes.

- Timing of Application Before Swimming:
- It's best to wait at least 24 hours after applying a new wafer before swimming to ensure the adhesive is fully set.
- If you need to apply it on the day of swimming, give it a couple of hours to set and warm it up a bit (under your arm, by sitting on it, or with a quick hair-dryer blast) to help it stick better.

- Securing the Seal:
- Use skin barrier wipes on the skin around the stoma and lightly over the tape border of the flange for extra waterproofing and better adhesion.
- Consider wearing an ostomy belt under your swimsuit for added support, especially if you're active.
- Additional ostomy tape strips around the wafer's edge can provide extra security.

- Drying After the Swim:
- Gently pat the pouch and wafer dry with a towel, and use a hair-dryer to remove any remaining moisture, which helps prevent damp marks on your clothes.
- Interestingly, hot tubs or very warm water might actually improve adhesion for some products.

- Pre-Swim Stoma Management:
- Try not to eat for about an hour before swimming, as exercise can speed up digestion and cause output.
- Some people use filter bags and cover the filter with an adhesive sticker before swimming.

- Protective Covers & Accessories:
- The Dry Pro Ostomy Cover is a reusable watertight sleeve that can be worn over the appliance, though reviews are mixed. It's suggested for longer snorkelling sessions.
- The Appeel No-Sting Medical Adhesive Remover aerosol can make pouch removal painless and protect your skin if you change daily.

- Testing & Confidence Building:
- Start by testing in a bathtub at home. If the wafer stays secure, you can then try swimming in pools, lakes, or the ocean.
- Remember, everyone's skin, appliances, and activity levels are different, so experiment to find what works best for you.