This topic is about managing unexpected leaks for people with an ostomy, specifically using a method called the "Pressure-Cookie" Rescue Method. This approach is particularly useful for those who experience leaks before their ostomy seals last the full week they desire. Here’s a breakdown of the method and some additional tips shared by others:

1. If you notice a leak, gently peel back the pouch or wafer just enough to expose the leaking area.
2. Clean and dry both your skin and the underside of the wafer.
3. Dust your skin with Stomahesive or zinc-oxide powder, then apply zinc-oxide diaper-rash ointment around the stoma.
4. Place 2–3 layers of absorbent paper towel, with a hole punched for the stoma, over the area.
5. Press the wafer back into place with the pouch still attached, secure it with an ostomy belt, and reapply the external "pressure cookie."
6. Pull up elastic shorts or a diaper and trousers tightly to maintain even pressure.

This method can extend the life of your seal by 1–2 days, reduce the need for new adhesive on sensitive skin, allow for frequent visual checks, and conserve supplies. Additionally, draining the pouch often helps keep waste away from the seal.

Other helpful insights include:

- Some people find the "pressure-cookie" method effective for emergency leak control.
- Using a soft convex Nu-Hope pouch, which has a small foam faceplate and no tape, can provide reliable wear for up to 5 days on challenging stomas. This method involves using silicone adhesive-remover wipes for gentle cleaning, without paste or barrier spray.
- A plastic Stoma-Guard, costing around $40 and worn with an elastic ostomy belt, can protect the stoma from waistband pressure, maintain constant pressure around the barrier, prevent pancaking, and reduce the frequency of changes from over 12 times a month to about once a week. This is used with a Cavillon barrier film patch, a thicker Eakin ring, and a two-piece barrier and pouch system.