Ostomy Supplies by an Ostomate – Keys to Finding the Right Fit – Part One

When you get told you’ll be getting an ostomy or possibly 2 ostomies, it’s a lot to take in.  You realize that your body is about to physically change in a variety of ways and it’s scary.  Most people have never heard of an ostomy let alone know what it looks like and how to live with it.  You can prepare for some things prior to surgery, but most things you can’t, which can be super frustrating.

About Hospital Ostomy Pouches

The hospital’s top priority is to perform a successful surgery.  They aren’t thinking about your lifestyle or the pouch appearance.  When a patient takes that first look post-surgery, they’re likely wearing a clear flat pouch and the first look is one often not forgotten.  The reason transparent pouches are worn post-surgery is so doctors and nurses can see what’s happening with a lot more ease. 

Most ostomates google what a stoma looks like prior to surgery and a photo of a perfect rosebud pops up.  Here’s the thing, no stoma is the same and stomas aren’t always perfect little rosebuds.  Because everyone is unique in their ostomy journey, so are our stomas. Some longer than others, some flush to the skin, some retract, some may have a loop.  Placement and the type of ostomy will be factors in what you wear.

Ask for Samples Right Away to Find the Right Fit

Once you understand what type of ostomy you have and know more about your stoma, it’s best to call ostomy companies directly and ask them to send you samples.  You’re brand new to ostomy life so may not know the proper terms or how to measure, but the consultants should be able to walk you through the process.

Top 2 things you should know when asking for help

Getting the right fit in the early stage is so important.  If the fit isn’t right you’ll have issues with leaks and skin irritation.  The horror stories you likely heard of before surgery.  It’s almost a right of passage that you’ll have some sort of issue but don’t get discouraged.  There are many ways to get you on the right path. 

1. Type of ostomy 
2. Is your stoma longer? Shorter? Flat? Retract in?

If you’re blessed with a long stoma that hangs down the pouch you’re a great candidate for a flat pouch.  If you have a shorter or more flush stoma, a pouch with some convexity will help you. Convexity comes in a few ranges and helps give your tummy a U shape for the stool to gather in and either falls down the pouch on its own or is massaged down by you.  If in a flat pouch with a more flush stoma, you may find that stool collects around the stoma and nowhere else.  This can be an issue as eventually, stool will push its way out the sides … a leak.

Try the samples before buying in larger quantities.  See what brand you prefer, how they do with your lifestyle and how your skin reacts.  Your skin isn’t accustomed to having an appliance stuck to it, so don’t be surprised if you have some sort of reaction.  Insider tip: Flonase … google it! 

A Few Products in My Personal Kit (not all)

Get to Know Inner Good’s NSWOC Nurse Service

One amazing feature offered by Inner Good is a virtual consultation with a trained nurse.  If you live in a remote location, maybe dealing with mobility issues or don’t have transportation available this is a great way to get some help.  Remember you deserve the help and we are here for you.

Future blog posts will be a continuation of this entry.  There’s so much information that one entry won’t suffice.  Stay tuned for more to come! If you have questions for me, email me at info@innergood.ca or comment below. Questions en français are very welcome . If you need help placing an order or need product advice, call me at 1.844.466.3939. You can also follow me @ostomateandthecity on instagram.