When considering regular colostomy irrigation, it's natural to want to hear from others who have been through the experience. This process involves flushing out the colon at regular intervals, which can help manage output and potentially improve quality of life. Here are some insights and advice from those who have tried it:

1. Overall benefit and quality of life:
- Many people who use irrigation say that once they get the hang of it, they gain almost complete control over their bowel output. This can mean having an empty bowel for up to 24 hours and the freedom to wear a small stoma cap instead of a full pouch.
- Several individuals have found that irrigation significantly enhances their quality of life and suggest giving it a try if your healthcare provider thinks it's suitable for you.

2. Time, mess, and learning curve:
- Some people only use irrigation during blockages because they find it messy and time-consuming, preferring the convenience of a standard pouch for everyday use.
- Others acknowledge that each session can take 30 to 60 minutes, but they believe the predictable bowel control is worth the effort.

3. Equipment recommendations:
- Electric irrigation pumps can simplify the process by eliminating the need to manually fill bags. One recommended product is the B. Braun Irrigator Pump, which is available on prescription in the UK.
- After irrigation, many users switch from a regular pouch to a mini-pouch or stoma cap for added security.

4. Technique and positioning:
- People have different preferences for how they position themselves during irrigation. Some lie in bed, while others prefer standing or sitting in the bathroom. It's important to experiment to find what works best for you.
- Watching videos on "irrigating a colostomy" on YouTube can provide helpful visual guidance on both hospital and at-home techniques.

5. Further information sources:
- For more detailed discussions and tips, you can explore the forum section under CONTENTS → COLLECTIONS → COLOSTOMY → "Colostomy Irrigation" thread, where many past experiences are shared.