Swimming with a stoma can be a daunting thought, but it’s entirely possible and can be a confidence-boosting experience. One person shared their success story of spending 2–3 hours in a pool without any issues, even keeping the same wafer secure for several days afterward. Here are some helpful tips and insights for swimming with a stoma:

1. Swimwear support:
- A snug Lycra or spandex swimsuit can help keep the pouch flat.
- For extra security, consider wearing a lightweight girdle or an ostomy wrap under or over your swimsuit.

2. Added adhesion at the edges:
- Use plain surgical tape or waterproof medical tape around the wafer border to prevent lifting.
- Sure Seal Rings, which are clear and elastic, can be applied to the outside of the wafer for leak-free swimming.

3. Alternative supportive garments:
- Water-friendly panties and wraps from OstomySecrets offer concealment and added stability.

4. Product combinations that work well in water:
- Marlen shallow-convex one-piece pouch with an Eakin Cohesive Seal for backup.
- Hollister two-piece with a floating flange, which can be worn for more than two days after swimming.

5. General appliance tips:
- For recessed stomas or uneven skin, a convex wafer might be necessary.
- Clean the skin around the stoma with mild soap like Ivory and avoid using adhesive remover wipes before applying a new wafer to ensure better adhesion.

6. Confidence builders:
- Test your appliance by lying back or fully submerging in the bathtub first.
- Many people swim daily in various water conditions, such as saltwater, rivers, hot tubs, or cold lakes, and keep their wafer on for 5–7 days, showing that regular water activity is achievable.

7. Reassurance:
- Once you find the right system, you may not need extra tape or accessories. Leaks are not inevitable if the fit and preparation are correct.