Top Ostomy Supplies for Hernias

When managing an ostomy with a hernia, selecting ostomy supplies that provide both support and comfort while helping reduce the risk of complications is essential. Every hernia bulge and body type means not one thing might work for the other, but there are some helpers out there. People with an ostomy (colostomy, ileostomy, or urostomy) are at higher risk of developing parastomal hernias, which occur around the stoma, and umbilical hernias, a condition where part of the intestine or fatty tissue bulges through a weak spot in the abdominal muscles near the navel.

Parastomal hernias happen for several reasons related to both the surgery itself and the changes in the abdominal wall following the procedure. Here are a few ostomy products that make a big difference in hernia management.

Here are our Top Ostomy Supplies for Individuals with Hernias

1. Hernia Support Belts

Hernia belts offer compression and support around the stoma and hernia, helping to manage discomfort and reduce further herniation. At Inner Good, we sell two brands of hernia support belts that could help you. They are custom-made to order, so we ask you to call us to discuss sizing and delivery times.

• Nu-Hope Hernia Support Belts: Nu-Hope hernia belts are widely recognized in the ostomy and hernia support community for their quality, comfort, and effectiveness. Designed specifically for individuals with both abdominal hernias and ostomies, these belts provide essential support to help manage the protrusion and discomfort caused by hernias, especially parastomal hernias. (hernias that occur around the stoma).
• Airway Hernia Belts: Airway hernia belts offer firm but comfortable abdominal support to help manage the protrusion of hernias. These belts come in various sizes and can be customized to fit around the specific size and location of the hernia and stoma. They often have adjustable straps or Velcro fasteners to ensure a secure fit

 2. Convex Ostomy Barriers: Available one-piece or two-piece options.

Convex barriers help create a better seal around the stoma and can reduce the pressure from a hernia.

– Coloplast SenSura Mio Convex: Offers both flexibility and firmness to contour to hernias, providing a more secure fit.
– Hollister New Image Convex CeraPlus Barrier: This barrier promotes skin health with ceramide technology and is shaped for herniated areas.

3. Pouches with Soft, Flexible Flanges: Available one-piece or two-piece options.

Pouches with flexible and adjustable flanges can provide a better fit and comfort around the hernia bulge.

– Coloplast Sensura Mio Flex: Its flexible adhesive and soft material offer comfort around hernias and adapt well to body movements.
– ConvaTec Esteem Synergy: The flexible flange system allows the pouch to adhere comfortably over hernias without compromising security.

4. Barrier Rings and Strips

Barrier rings and/or strips can help improve the seal around the stoma and hernia, preventing leaks. Barrier rings help fill gaps and uneven skin surfaces. Barrier strips are flexible, moldable adhesive strips that are used by people with an ostomy to enhance the fit and performance of their ostomy appliances.

At Inner Good we sell a variety of brands of rings and seals. Click here to browse a variety of brands such as Coloplast, Hollister, Convatec and more.

While hernias are common in individuals with stomas, there are steps that can be taken to help prevent them or manage them if they occur.

• Wearing Hernia Support Belts: These belts provide extra support around the stoma, reducing the risk of hernia development by reinforcing the abdominal wall.
• Maintaining a Healthy Weight: Keeping body weight within a healthy range reduces abdominal pressure and lowers the risk of hernia formation.
• Proper Lifting Techniques: Avoid heavy lifting, and if lifting is necessary, practice proper techniques by using your legs, not your abdominal muscles.
• Strengthening Core Muscles: Strengthening exercises targeting the core muscles, under the guidance of a healthcare professional, may help reinforce the abdominal wall.

Parastomal & Umbilical hernias are a common complication after ostomy surgery, but with proper care, lifestyle modifications, use of supportive devices and the possibility of repair surgery, they can be managed effectively.

As patients, we go through so much. If you are having a hard time navigating all of this, we are here to help. Contact me, Carly, at Inner Good anytime to ask me about everything mentioned above and any questions you may have about products.