An ostomy is a surgical procedure where an opening, or stoma, is made in the abdomen to divert waste products away from damaged or diseased parts of the body. The waste exits the stoma and enters an ostomy pouch, which is attached to the skin using special types of medical supplies. Ostomies are typically performed to treat conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease, diverticulitis, and certain types of cancer. They’re considered lifesaving procedures and, therefore, are only performed when necessary. Ostomy surgery can have a significant impact on a person's quality of life, but with proper care and management, most people are able to lead active, normal lives. As a new ostomate, you may have many questions. One of the most common questions revolves around how to keep your ostomy pouch dry in the shower, or what to do when you’re bathing. Here, we’ll answer these questions and provide a little more detail on how to get the most out of your hygiene routine.
Adjusting to Life with an Ostomy
Adjusting to life with an ostomy can be a difficult process for some, but with time and support, you will eventually learn how to manage your ostomy. In doing so, you’ll likely experience an increased quality of life, as your symptoms of the underlying condition are at bay. During the start, there are a few ways to help you adjust to life with an ostomy. They include the following:
Learn About Your Ostomy
It’s important to understand how your ostomy works, how to care for it, and what to expect from it. Your healthcare provider and a certified ostomy nurse can give you information and answer your questions. This will help you better understand how to change your ostomy pouch, what foods you may want to avoid, and how to enjoy your favorite activities without the risk of leaks.
Get Support
Joining a support group or talking with other people who have an ostomy can be very helpful. They can provide emotional support and practical advice. It’s recommended to attend an ostomy support group soon after your surgery, as this is usually when you’ll have the most questions and concerns. Look through the list of support groups affiliated with The United Ostomy Associations of America (UOAA) to find something near you.
Take Care of Yourself
Having an ostomy shouldn’t change how you care for your health. In fact, you should be even more focused on improving your overall wellbeing. Eat a healthy diet, exercise regularly, and prioritize your sleep schedule. These will help you feel your best physically and emotionally.
Be Prepared
Living with an ostomy means you’ll need to learn how to change your pouch. Sometimes, this may be required in difficult situations or in public, but being prepared is the best way to mitigate potentially unwelcome situations. Always carry spare ostomy supplies with you, in case of leaks or other unexpected issues. You can also look into getting a UOAA travel communication card to make things easier when in transit.
Be Patient
It can take time to adjust to life with an ostomy, so try to be patient. Give yourself time and don't be too hard on yourself. Everyone's experience with an ostomy is different, but you will get the hang of it. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, talking to someone in your support group can help you gain clarity on the situation.
Understanding Your Stoma
Another key part of caring for your ostomy, especially when you’re bathing, is understanding your stoma. A stoma is an opening created in the abdominal wall during surgery. It’s usually reddish in color and moist, but it can vary in size and shape depending on the individual and the type of surgery performed. The stoma does not have sensation and does not cause pain. Its purpose is to create an alternate pathway for waste to leave the body. Throughout most of the day, an ostomy bag is worn over the stoma to collect the waste and it needs to be changed regularly.
Can You Get Your Stoma Wet?
In most situations, yes, you can get your stoma wet. In fact, getting an ostomy shouldn’t interfere with your regular bathing routine in any way. Exposure to air and water won’t harm the stoma, so unless your doctor or ostomy nurse has told you otherwise, you’re fine to shower without your ostomy pouch. Some ostomates enjoy this, as it gives your skin a break from the pouching system, while others prefer to keep their system on. It’s really up to you and your personal preferences.
It should be noted that some people may find that getting their stoma wet can increase irritation. The skin around the stoma, known as peristomal skin, is delicate and can be easily irritated. When the stoma is submerged in water, such as during a shower or bath, it can cause the skin to become swollen and red, making it more difficult to secure the ostomy pouch.
If you have a new ostomy or have sensitive skin, you may want to consider methods to avoid getting your stoma wet. This means wearing your ostomy pouch while you bathe. If you’re not sure what the best option is for your situation, always consult with your doctor or ostomy nurse. They can provide you with the best advice and give you different options to try.
4 Ways to Keep Your Ostomy Pouch Dry in the Shower
If you find that taking your ostomy pouch off during the shower causes irritation, or you’d rather keep the pouching system on out of personal preference, that’s okay too. However, you’ll want to do your best to keep your ostomy pouch dry so that it maintains its adhesion and doesn’t cause irritation. Luckily, there are several ways to keep your ostomy pouch dry while showering:
1. Use a Waterproof Ostomy Pouch Cover
A waterproof ostomy pouch cover is a protective covering that’s worn over a pouching system to keep it dry and protect it from moisture. These covers are typically made from waterproof or water-resistant materials, such as PVC or nylon, and are designed to fit snugly over the pouch, keeping it dry and secure. They can be worn while swimming, showering, or doing other activities that involve water. Alternatively, you can use waterproof ostomy tape to achieve a similar result.
2. Apply a Barrier Film to the Skin Around the Stoma
If you don’t want to use a waterproof pouch, you can secure your ostomy bag to prevent water from getting inside with an ostomy barrier film. This is a product used to protect the skin around an ostomy stoma and to help secure the ostomy pouch. Ostomy barrier films are typically applied to the skin before attaching the pouch. The film creates a barrier between the stoma and the adhesive on the pouch, protecting the skin from irritation and damage. It also helps to reduce the chance of leakage from the pouch.
3. Use a Shower Shield
An ostomy shower shield is made to protect your pouch from water while showering or bathing. It is typically a plastic or waterproof cover that is placed over the pouch to keep it dry and prevent any water from getting inside. Ostomy shower shields may have an opening or a window that allows the stoma to be exposed and function normally while the pouch remains protected.
4. Avoid Submerging the Pouch in Water
Finally, if possible, avoid having the pouch directly under the stream of water from the shower head. This will reduce the pressure that’s placed on the pouching system and minimize the amount of water that may get under the adhesion.
Regardless of if you decide to wear your pouch or not, it’s important to dry the skin around the stoma thoroughly after showering. You should do this even if you use products to avoid getting your ostomy pouch wet during bathing. Drying the area thoroughly will help prevent moisture from getting inside the pouch or causing further skin irritation. If you have any further questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to your doctor or ostomy nurse.
To help you manage daily life and get the most out of your ostomy, always be prepared with an adequate amount of high-quality ostomy supplies from Byram Healthcare. Byram Healthcare is committed to doing our part to improve the lives of those living with ostomies through convenient product delivery and a diverse product catalog. Browse our selection of ostomy supplies today and receive discreet delivery directly to your doorstop.
