UOAA Discussion Board

Hello and thanks for having me here.
I hope I am posting in the right place?
I had an irreversible colostomy back in December. Everything was going very well, typical pain, long recovery, but everything was going pretty good. Now I'm starting to have issues with the wafer and barrier. I am using Hollister brand equipment, two-piece system with a drainable pouch and what's happening is, after I apply the barrier, within 15 minutes the wafer part rises up so high that it evens out with the stoma. When the stoma puts out, the stool gets attached to the wafer and eventually works itself down to my skin and this has not happened before. I am currently using the stretch to fit barrier and was recommended to try the cut to fit barrier as this might relieve that problem. The other problem is is that the stool itself is very pasty and can't find its way down into the pouch. I'm having a horrible time any advice is helpful. Thank you.
Joecal

A nurse recommended I cut my barrier opening at least 1/8" larger than my stoma. It does seem to reduce undermining. I use a Hollister flextend barrier. I like it's firmness. Good luck on your quest.

Thanks VonnieM
I don't know what a flextend is like but my biggest issue is when they did my surgery I was left with a pretty large bulge where a stoma comes out. At first they thought it was a hernia but after a CT scan proved negative. So now I'm stuck with this bulge and the stoma on top of that and when the stool comes out it angles down and just attaches itself to the ring. Trying to see a stoma nurse but can't get an appointment. I'll have to look into that flextend. Maybe that's what I need. Have a great day

At the risk of sounding like I get a toaster for every person I convince...

If you have a colostomy, consider irrigating.
It gives you control over output, massively reduces the likelihood of leaks, extends the life of appliances, and in many cases, lets you wear just a small, light pouch instead of the full gear.