Planning a holiday and looking for a swimsuit that can effectively hide an ostomy pouch can be a bit of a challenge. If you've had trouble with swimsuits that don't quite do the job, here are some friendly tips and ideas to help you find something that works for you.

- Start by checking out regular retail swimwear. You might be surprised to find that standard one-piece suits or tankinis from places like Speedo or Sears can hide the pouch just as well as specialty suits, and they often come at a much lower price. Look for suits with extra-stretch or lycra panels over the abdomen, or consider maternity styles that offer more room. One person found a $30 maternity suit with side-gather drawstrings at Target that worked well.

- Pay attention to specific design features. Patterned fabrics can help disguise any bulges better than solid colors. Opt for higher-waisted, regular-cut, or full-bottom briefs, and steer clear of high-cut legs that might expose the bottom of the pouch. Board shorts worn over a panty can help keep the pouch flat, and you can even shorten the legs for a more streamlined look. Swim skirts, sarongs, short towels, or cami-style cover-ups can be handy to wear until you're ready to swim and right after you get out of the water.

- When trying on swimsuits, do a fit test at home. Sit, bend, and then soak in the bath for about 30 minutes to see how the fabric behaves when wet. You can also draw attention upward with plunging or decorative necklines, which can help divert focus away from the pouch area.

- If you're considering online or specialist options, websites like whiterosecollection.com offer ostomy-aware swimwear. However, be cautious when buying online since fit is crucial and returns can be tricky. Many people find that dedicated ostomy swim lines and belts are overpriced and not necessarily more effective than regular suits. An inexpensive ace bandage can sometimes work as a substitute for a support belt.

- Lastly, remember that confidence is key. Most people at the beach are focused on their own insecurities and are unlikely to notice yours. Some ostomates even wear bikinis with the pouch visible, showing that attitude can often matter more than the clothing itself.