Topic Explanation
The forum topic is about a person who recently had a colostomy and is experiencing concerns about smelling the ostomy. They are unsure if the smells are real or imagined and seek advice and suggestions from others who have experience with ostomies.

Advice and Insights
- Smells from the ostomy can be real and are often more noticeable as the bag gets older and fills up with stool.
- Different products like Bravo by Coloplast, M9, Na'Scent, and Safe and Simple can help control the smell.
- Micro perforations in the wafer can cause odor, and using a one-piece drainable pouch and burping the gas occasionally can help.
- Changing the pouch daily or every other day, using ostomy deodorants, and using Aqua Seal from Costa Medical can help control odors.
- The smell can be affected by body heat and the filter becoming saturated over time.
- Insurance companies may limit the number of supplies, but it's possible to find cheaper supplies through alternative sources like eBay.
- The type of pouch and products used can affect odor, and changing products can make a difference.
- Certain foods and supplements like omega-3 or fish oil pills can affect the smell of the pouch.
- The perception of smell can be influenced by worry and anxiety, and developing alternative attitudes can help manage emotional responses.
- It's important to find what works for each individual and to address concerns about odor with practical solutions.