Applying and removing your pouch
Stoma pouch application and removal can be tricky. But never fear – we’ve got the insider tips, simple fixes, and game-changing products you need to know about.
The most common stoma pouch application and removal issues
We’ve rounded up the most common problems you’ll face when applying or removing your stoma pouch, plus the insider tips and products you need to get them fixed – quickly. Just pick the problem and see the solution.
It’s painful when you remove your stoma pouch
Stoma pouches are designed to stay in place, which is great to feel confident throughout the day and night. Not so great when you want to remove it, therefore we always recommend using an adhesive remover. You can get these in a spray or wipe version, depending on what works best for you. Also remember to take your time when removing the pouch and try not to pull from the skin. Don’t forget to also check your skin when you’re changing the pouch as painful removal of your stoma pouch can also be a sign your skin isn’t as healthy as we want it to be.
Here’s the products to use to help set yourself up for pain-free stoma pouch removal:
Release™
Rapid, pain-free removal of your pouch with a minty fresh scent, while providing complete protection against repeated skin stripping caused by adhesive products. Letting you get on with what’s important.
You’re changing your stoma pouch too much
Changing your stoma pouch too frequently can damage the sensitive skin around your stoma. Wondering how much is too much? If you wear a closed stoma pouch, it’s more than 3 changes in a day, for a drainable stoma pouch, it’s more than once a day (although emptying your stoma pouch more often is perfectly normal), and for a urostomy stoma pouch, it’s changing it more than every other day.
Here’s how to increase the lifespan of your stoma pouch:
- Firstly, it’s important to know why you are changing the pouch so much. If your output has changed or you’re experiencing more leaks it’s important to link in with your stoma care nurse.
- If you feel the edges of the stoma pouch are rubbing or getting caught in your clothes, Contour™ flange extenders are a great option to give you more comfort and wear time.
- If you worry about leaks and sore skin, you could try a seal around your stoma.
- Lastly, a 2-piece pouch is a great option if you want to change the bag more often without having to remove the baseplate from the skin.
Your stoma pouch won’t stick
You can give yourself a head start by making sure your skin is completely clean and dry, but exercise, sweating, day-to-day activities, and residue from previous appliances can all impact the stickiness of your baseplate. These are the tips and products you need to keep your stoma pouch in place:
- When you are cleaning the skin use water and dry wipes – avoid cotton wool and tissues.
- Flange extenders are really useful to help the bag contour around irregular shapes that may stop the bag from sticking.
- If you have been prescribed a product for the area, this may have an impact on the bag sticking. Speak to your stoma nurse or pharmacist about the options available for best absorption with minimal impact on adhesive.
- Hair around the stoma site can also stop the pouch from sticking, remove peristomal hair by clipping or trimming on a regular basis.
- Using a barrier film helps protect the skin, keeping it intact and providing better pouch adherence.
- Remember to keep the body hydrated as dry, flaky skin can also stop the pouch from sticking.
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