Swimming with an ileostomy can be a bit daunting, especially if you've had some mishaps in the past. An adult daughter is seeking advice on how her 80-year-old mother, who has had an ileostomy for nearly two years, can safely return to swimming at the local YMCA. Her mother experienced leaks and even a complete pouch detachment during early attempts, which understandably made her anxious about trying again. The daughter is also looking for dietary advice since her mother has already cut out many of her favorite foods.

Here are some helpful tips and insights:

1. Appliance choices and reinforcement:
- Many swimmers find a one-piece drainable pouch works well, especially when the cloth flange is reinforced with waterproof tape like Hi-Tape.
- Two-piece systems can also be effective. Some swimmers use Convatec Sure Fit Natura products and feel secure with the "click" lock.
- Using a closed-end pouch while swimming can prevent clips from opening underwater.
- For extra adhesion, consider using Securi-T Hydrocolloid Skin Barrier Strips or framing the wafer with pink waterproof tape.

2. Belts, supports, and garments:
- Wearing an ostomy belt in the water can help stabilize the pouch.
- Consider light support garments like a girdle, spandex-type undergarments, or a Spanx swimsuit.
- Boxer briefs or an elastic waistband can help keep the pouch close to the body.
- PouchWear belts are designed for swimming and can be found at OstomyBagHolder.com.
- Some people wrap their mid-section with press-on plastic seal film before putting on their swimsuit for added security.

3. Suit selection:
- A slightly looser or thicker-fabric swimsuit can help disguise the appliance, while high-spandex suits offer gentle compression.
- Men might layer baggy trunks over snug boxer briefs, and women often prefer one-piece suits.

4. Timing and preparation:
- It's best not to swim on the same day you change your wafer or appliance; a well-set wafer (at least 24 hours old) adheres better.
- Make sure the skin under the wafer is healthy before spending extended time in the water.
- Some users report wearing the same wafer for up to a week, even after long swim sessions, as long as the seal remains intact.

5. Diet tactics to reduce output and gas before swimming:
- Eat a low-residue meal, like fish or chicken, several hours before swimming.
- A handful of marshmallows shortly before swimming can thicken stool and reduce flow.
- Choose pouches with a vent or filter to relieve gas and prevent ballooning.

6. General encouragement and professional help:
- Many long-term ileostomates swim, snorkel, and enjoy hot tubs without any issues.
- Consulting an ostomy nurse for personalized appliance fitting and waterproofing tips can be very helpful.
- Remember, the surgery is life-saving, and with the right preparation, you can control your activities, not the bag.