This topic is about finding comfortable hosiery options for someone with an ostomy, especially during the winter months when wearing dresses is desired. The challenge is to find tights or pantyhose that do not cause pain by pressing on the ostomy site, which is located just below the navel. Here are some helpful suggestions and insights:
1. Layering Method:
- Wear high-rise panties, like Jockey high-waisted briefs, over pantyhose to prevent slippage and reduce pressure on the stoma.
- Alternatively, use bikini briefs over soft-waisted tights for a similar effect.
2. Choose Looser or Specialized Hosiery:
- Consider maternity pantyhose, as the stretchy panel can sit comfortably over or under the pouch without compressing it.
- Explore online retailers for lower-rise, wide-band, or higher-denier options.
- Order a test batch directly from manufacturers, as some are interested in creating niche products for ostomates.
3. Alternatives to Pantyhose:
- Use stockings with a garter belt, which can be positioned above or below the stoma area.
- Try thigh-highs with extra-wide comfort bands, ensuring the correct size and grip.
- Opt for elastic-waist gathered skirts with socks or bare legs, depending on the season, to avoid waistband pressure.
4. Jeans Workaround:
- Maternity jeans with a soft knit panel can be worn over the pouch. Check thrift stores like Goodwill for affordable options or visit specialty maternity shops for a better fit.
5. Pouch-Outside Clothing Strategies:
- Keep the ostomy bag outside of underwear to prevent it from being compressed. Use untucked shirts, dresses, or high-waist skirts to conceal the pouch.
- Roll the pantyhose waistband down to just below the stoma line after pulling them up.
- Use wraps from ostomy-specific vendors to secure the pouch discreetly.
6. DIY Hosiery Modification:
- Put on stockings, locate the stoma, snip a hole, and pull the pouch through. Follow with a tank top or wrap for added stability.
7. Brands, Products & Resources:
- Soma Vanishing Tummy Retro Brief & Modern Brief
- Jockey high-rise panties
- General hosiery brands like Playtex and Hanes
- OstomySecrets.com for wraps and fashion solutions
- UK Tights for online hosiery options
- Cirilla’s for garter belts and hosiery
- Goodwill for second-hand maternity jeans
These suggestions aim to provide comfort and style while accommodating the needs of someone with an ostomy.
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