This topic is about managing the frequency and build-up of mucus plugs for those living with an end colostomy. People with an ileostomy or colostomy might experience mucus build-up, and the originator is curious about how often others deal with this issue and how they manage it.

Here are some shared experiences and advice from others:

1. Experiences with mucus build-up can vary greatly:
- One person with an end colostomy since 2014 expels a hard mucus "blob" about once a month, but has noticed more frequent "slime" discharges recently.
- Another person had severe, constant mucus discharge with an ileostomy while their colon was intact. After switching to a permanent colostomy, they no longer have mucus problems.
- A third person experienced very hard, waxy mucus that couldn't be expelled naturally due to a large parastomal hernia. They used weekly enemas for relief until they had a proctectomy, which removed the rectum and resolved the mucus issue, though it brought other challenges.

2. Practical measures that might help:
- If hard plugs can't be passed naturally, a gentle enema, done weekly in one example, can help clear the rectal stump and relieve discomfort.
- Surgical options, like a proctectomy, might be considered if chronic mucus retention becomes unmanageable or is complicated by hernia or prolapse.

3. Additional observations:
- Stoma prolapse can happen after both ileostomy and colostomy. One person experienced an initial 6-inch prolapse with their ileostomy and a smaller prolapse after converting to a colostomy.
- Dietary freedom seemed to increase for someone who switched to a colostomy, although this did not directly affect mucus production once the rectum was removed.