This topic is about dealing with a stoma prolapse that has worsened after weight gain, along with concerns about hernia support. The person involved had a colostomy created 8 months ago, which was converted from an ileostomy. Initially, the stoma was about 1 inch long, but it has now prolapsed to about 2 inches in both diameter and length. They have gained around 30 pounds since the surgery and believe this weight gain might be contributing to the prolapse.

Here are some additional details and advice shared by others:

- The surgeon had placed mesh and mentioned that a prolapse shouldn’t occur, yet it has happened.
- The person is already using a Nu-Hope hernia belt for support.
- They have experienced significant weight gain.
- They are also dealing with lumbar spinal stenosis, which limits their ability to walk more than 100 feet without needing to rest. They plan to see a specialist soon.

Advice and insights from others include:

1. Prolapse size can vary. One person shared that their stoma extended to about 3 inches but reduced to ¾–1 inch when they avoided abdominal strain and spent more time lying down.
2. Try to minimize activities that increase intra-abdominal pressure and rest whenever possible to allow the prolapse to retract.
3. Gentle abdominal exercises, while manually supporting or “holding in” the stoma, may help maintain muscle tone without worsening the prolapse.
4. If comfortable and safe, manually reducing (carefully pushing) the prolapsed section back into the abdomen can be done.
5. A Nu-Hope 4-inch hernia belt with an opening for the appliance is recommended:
- Wear it snugly during the day to keep the stoma and any hernia in place, but remove it for sleep.
- During heavier activity or exercise, consider adding a regular hernia support garment over the belt for extra stability.
6. Surgical repair is an option, but some members note up to a 50% chance of prolapse or hernia recurrence. Due to this, some choose to manage the condition conservatively, as they may not trust further surgery.