Living with Ostomy

The 5 Ostomy Supplies You Must Have for Stoma Care

Those living with an ostomy know the importance of caring for their stoma. Keeping this sensitive area safe and infection-free is paramount to maintaining the quality of life and independence. However, navigating the sea of options available for ostomates may seem nearly impossible. So how do you find what suits your body, stoma, and lifestyle?  

Stoma Dangers 

A stoma is an opening in the abdomen connected to the digestive system. From this site, waste is expelled from the body, usually circumventing the colon for various reasons.

This sensitive skin can be an area of concern because if not diligently cared for, potential stoma problems can arise, such as: 

• Red, irritated skin 
• Leakage 
• Infection 
• Pain 
• Allergic reaction to tape or adhesives 

However, it is important to note that these potential peristomal skin problems are not typical when living with a stoma if you are proactive with your ostomy program and peristomal skin care. This means keeping the peristomal skin clean with soap and water, changing the pouch system when needed, ensuring a secure seal around the stoma, and removing the pouching system safely and carefully. 

We have listed 5 must-have ostomy supplies to keep your stoma clean and safe to save you a headache or two. 

There are so many different pouching systems, adhesive wipes and removers, skin prep wipes, and skin barriers available; the thought alone can send your head spinning! 

The Top 5 Ostomy Supplies Every Stoma Care Routine Should Include

When wading through the seemingly unending amount of stoma care products, you may feel completely inundated with questions and confusion. We’ve made this a bit easier for you. Here’s our list of the top five ostomy supplies you should have on hand to care for your stoma: 

1. Hollister New Image Two-Piece Drainable Pouch with Lock n Roll Micro Seal Closure and Filter

FSA Approved

 This two-piece pouching system is suitable for ileostomies and colostomies and is designed to be opened from the bottom. At the same time, the filter slows the release of gas and deodorizes it. It is designed to be used with any New Image two-piece skin barrier with the same flange size and is FSA-approved. Customers say the two-piece system can be easier on users and peristomal skin due to fewer skin barrier/wafer changes. 

2. Coloplast SenSura Mio One Piece Maxi Cut to Fit Transparent Drainable Pouch

FSA Approved

The elastic adhesive of this one-piece system fits individual body shapes allowing the user to feel secure during everyday activities. Customers rave about the freedom, security, and peace of mind that this pouch provides. The full-circle filter reduces ballooning while the flexible design stretches and bends with your skin. Being FSA-approved makes this kit an affordable and discrete option. 

3. Nu-Hope Nu-Form 4 Inches Cool Comfort Elastic Ostomy Support Belt

FSA Approved Made In USA

A customer favorite for the natural fit, this comfortable binder forms around bulges and other body shapes. Its durable plastic ring reinforces the 360° wafer and pouch support opening, while the Velcro-type closure is adjustable. This abdominal support belt helps protect abdominal hernias around and adjacent to stomas. 

4. Hollister Adapt Paste

FSA Approved

Customers say that since uneven skin can cause an improper seal with the pouching system, using this FSA-approved barrier paste creates a more secure bond between the pouch and the stoma. It fills or caulks uneven skin contours to create a flatter surface and may help extend the wear time of the skin barrier. Creating a flatter surface makes the seal more secure, minimizing leakage and potential peristomal skin irritation. 

5. Coloplast Brava Elastic Barrier Strips

FSA Approved

The unique, soft, moldable material of these barrier strips offers a longer wear time. Customers rave about the secure fit they provide! They are flexible, stretchable, highly durable, and absorb moisture without breaking down. The thinner edges of the barrier strips help them stay smooth against the skin while the durability increases wear time meaning fewer changes. Longer wear and security? Yes, please! 

Living with an ostomy can seem complicated, but finding products to help you live your everyday life easier can be a godsend. Of course, it is always best to work with your doctor or ostomy nurse to develop the right daily plan that works for you and your lifestyle to maintain your independence and quality of life.

Be sure to visit our site, www.healthproductsforyou.com, to see these five great ostomy supplies and everything you may need to care for your stoma and its delicate skin. 

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