Let's talk about how long you can wear an ileostomy bag before needing to change it. This is a common question for those with an ileostomy, and it's important to find a balance between comfort, safety, and convenience.

Here are some helpful insights and advice:

1. Wear-time can vary depending on the type of stoma and the design of the appliance:
- If you have a one-piece drainable pouch for an ileostomy, it's typical to change it every 3 to 4 days.
- For a two-piece system, which includes a wafer and a pouch, you might be able to go about a week before needing a change.
- If you have a colostomy with a two-piece system, it might last up to 10 days. Regular irrigation doesn't usually shorten the wear-time, but daily swimming might.

2. There are some potential risks if you wear the bag for too long:
- The material of the pouch can start to break down, which increases the risk of leaks.
- Wearing the bag for an extended period can also cause irritation to the skin around the stoma.

3. Here are some practical recommendations:
- Try to establish a consistent schedule for changing your bag, such as every 5 days for an ileostomy, rather than trying to see how long you can go.
- While it's important to consider the cost of supplies, it's also crucial to weigh this against the risk of leaks in public and potential skin issues.