Living with a parastomal hernia can be challenging, and finding ways to manage it day-to-day is important. A parastomal hernia occurs when the intestine pushes through the abdominal wall near the stoma, and it can be quite common among ostomates. Here are some practical tips and insights shared by others who have experienced this condition:

- Prevalence and Risk
- Many people with ostomies experience parastomal hernias, with estimates ranging from about 50% to nearly all ostomates over time.

- Watch-and-Wait vs. Surgery
- Some surgeons recommend waiting to repair the hernia unless it becomes painful or limits your activities.
- If surgery becomes necessary, one person chose a non-mesh repair because it can be easier to revise if the hernia comes back, which is a common occurrence.
- If discomfort increases, consider seeking a second opinion from another surgeon.

- Hernia Belts and Support Garments
- Wearing a well-fitted parastomal hernia belt can help prevent the hernia from getting larger and provide support and comfort during daily activities.
- Some people use these belts even before a hernia develops to reduce the risk.
- One person found that creating a custom template to fit around the stoma and placing it under the belt improved its effectiveness.

- Activity Modification
- Avoiding overexertion, such as heavy yard work, can help prevent worsening of the hernia. Pacing your activities can help manage symptoms.

- Information Resources
- There are many experiences and tips shared in previous forum threads. You can find more information by looking up "CONTENTS — Premium Contents — hernia and stoma" for additional reading.