This topic is about dealing with the visibility of an ostomy bag, managing body-image anxiety, and finding ways to better conceal the pouch. The person sharing their experience has spent 13 years trying to hide their ostomy pouch under oversized clothing, which led to worsening body-image issues and social withdrawal. A recent decision to make the ostomy permanent became a turning point, encouraging them to exercise, skateboard in public with the pouch visible, and focus on mental health. Although they still face challenges like occasional vomiting and paranoia about being stared at, they feel more optimistic and determined to live in the present.

Here are some helpful insights and advice:

1. Plan to consult with a stoma nurse to explore different pouching systems, as only a few have been tried so far.

2. Address any issues with the current pouching system:
- Pressure sores from a convex flange led to switching to a flat pouch with aloe vera adhesive to help the skin heal.

3. Manage thoughts about strangers noticing the pouch:
- Most people do not seem to pay attention.

4. Seek advice from a qualified ostomy nurse to:
- Review the fit and type of pouch, considering options like convex vs. flat, size, and filter.
- Identify and eliminate factors like gassy foods that cause ballooning.

5. Practical tips for managing the pouch:
- Frequent emptying and wearing high-rise underwear can keep the pouch flat. If it fills, it resembles something in a pants pocket and remains inconspicuous.

6. Clothing and accessory suggestions:
- Use extra-long or untucked T-shirts wrapped around the pouch.
- Consider pleated-front trousers.
- Skin-tight tops are possible with supportive wraps.
- Ostomy wraps with inner pockets, like the Classic Wrap from Ostomysecrets.com, effectively hide the pouch. They also offer a bikini bottom for beachwear.

7. Product recommendations:
- Coloplast SenSura Click 2-piece system, with a tan-colored pouch film that hides the white plastic ring and stoma outline.
- Ostomysecrets Classic Wrap and a general "micro pouch & leg bag" setup for urostomies.

8. Shift in perspective:
- View the pouch as a prosthesis, similar to an artificial limb, rather than a deformity.
- Most people are understanding when told about the medical reasons for the pouch, and their curiosity is usually brief.
- Focus on survival, health, and confidence, as these are what others truly notice, not the pouch itself.