This topic is about living without a traditional ostomy bag for those with a colostomy. After eight years of dealing with the challenges of conventional ostomy pouches, one person developed a "bag-free" method that significantly improved their quality of life. They are now inviting others to share their success stories. Here’s a breakdown of their approach and some additional advice:

1. Create body bands from double-stretch Lycra, similar to sports-bra fabric, and keep about 14 in rotation.
2. Use disposable absorbing bed-pad sheets, cut into 25 cm squares, as absorbent pads.
3. Carry a small pack of baby wipes as the only spare item needed.
4. Wear a Medac stretchable back support belt for activities or to help with a parastomal hernia, which also conceals the stoma.
5. Train your bowels to empty once each morning: remove bands/pad, "milk" the stoma over the toilet, shower, then reapply toilet paper, a fresh pad, Lycra bands, and the back support if needed.
6. Change the Lycra bands every 2–3 days, or sooner if odor develops.

Diet and exercise play a crucial role in achieving predictable output:
- Avoid wheat bread, focus on chicken and fish, and eat plenty of salads and vegetables.
- Use minimal seasoning, avoid gravies and sauces, and enjoy 1–2 glasses of red wine with dinner.
- Do not smoke and aim for a 60-minute walk five days a week.

Additional insights and advice include:

- This pouch-free technique is mainly suitable for those with a sigmoid or descending colostomy that produces formed stool. It is generally not suitable for ileostomates due to their liquid, continuous output.
- Colostomy irrigation can be an alternative, allowing some to stay bag-free for 1–3 days. Proper training is essential, and consulting a healthcare professional is recommended.
- Always carry a small pouch or supplies for unexpected situations like food poisoning or dietary upsets.
- Frequent pad and band changes are necessary for odor management, especially without a pouch filter.
- Consult with a healthcare professional before making changes to your care routine, as different stoma types and conditions may affect the suitability of this method.

Products and materials mentioned include Medac stretchable back support, homemade double-stretch Lycra fabric bands, disposable absorbing bed-pad sheets, and any brand of baby wipes.

For a fulfilling lifestyle, regular exercise such as golf, hiking, and walking is compatible with a well-secured pad/Lycra system. Some find that naming their stoma and maintaining a positive mindset helps them embrace life without a pouch.