The topic is about how to safely return to playing ice hockey, a full-contact sport, after having ostomy surgery. Here are some practical tips and insights shared by others who have been in similar situations:

1. Stoma Protection for Contact Sports
- Many recommend using a hard shield like the Titanium Max Ostomy Armor. It helps absorb impacts from pucks and other hits, and may reduce the risk of parastomal hernias.
- Some combine the shield with a Stealthbelt support belt for added stability under hockey pants.

2. Playing Without a Shield
- One experienced player, who has had an ostomy since age 14, chooses not to use a protector. They rely on standard hockey pants and kidney pads, and have not experienced pouch injuries. They emphasize the importance of using a fresh pouch and changing it every two days, especially when doing physically demanding jobs.

3. Progressive Return to Play
- Ensure full surgical healing before returning to play. Gradually rebuild core and abdominal muscles, which may take several months.
- Start with non-contact sessions to regain your skating feel before joining league games.

4. Pouch Change and Maintenance Routine for Athletes
- Always go into a game or workout with a recently changed appliance.
- Empty your pouch before hitting the ice and monitor hydration. Be prepared to step off the ice to empty during long events.

5. Appliance Choices for Active Use
- Many prefer 2-piece systems for sports because they allow for easier and faster gas release, have discardable bags, and come with opaque covers.
- Others are happy with products like the Convatec ActiveLife one-piece.
- Edgepark is mentioned as a supplier with a wide range of appliances and accessory strips.

6. Preventing Leaks When Sweating or Moving Hard
- Make sure the flange or ring is fully sealed.
- Use adhesive-remover wipes to clear old residue, followed by sting-free alcohol wipes before applying a new wafer.
- Add ostomy barrier strips or tape around the wafer for extra hold, especially if you sweat heavily or engage in high-intensity activities.

7. Output Consistency and "Pancaking"
- Thick output can pancake under rigid protectors. Experiment with the pouch angle and empty it more often to manage this.

8. General Reassurance
- Many have successfully participated in activities like hockey, construction work, backpacking, kettlebell training, cycling, snowboarding, SUP racing, motorcycling, and even flying aircraft—all with an ostomy. Confidence grows as you find the right protection, establish a routine for appliance changes, and build core strength.