Ostomy Basics: Selecting the Right Pouching System

Choosing the right ostomy pouch for your body and situation is key in securing a comfortable and stress-free life. Read below to learn more about the basics, their differences and where you can find top-quality ostomy products.

What is an Ostomy Pouch?

An ostomy pouch is a medical device that helps to collect waste from the body after specific surgeries. These surgeries can include (but are not limited to) colostomies, ileostomies, and urostomies. During these surgeries, different stomas, or openings, are made for the drainage of waste. When a surgery is particularly extensive or obstructive, a stoma pouch becomes a necessity. Most ostomy pouches contain a plastic bag and a mounting plate, referred to as a baseplate or wafer. Not only do these pouches help with the drainage of waste, but they also help protect the skin around the stoma from any bacteria or harmful environmental toxins. Plain and simple, ostomy products are lifesavers.

Types of Ostomy Pouches

When selecting a product, it’s important to be aware of the different ostomy pouches that are sold. Two common pouches are closed-ended pouches, and open-ended pouches. There are also one-piece pouch systems and two-piece pouch systems. Closed-ended pouches are closed at the end and discarded after one use. Open-ended pouches are not thrown away after one use, but used a few times. They can be opened and closed by a device at the bottom, like a clamp. The one-piece pouch system does not use a wafer or baseplate, but is instead fastened directly to the body. The two-piece pouch system uses a wafer and the ostomy pouch is then attached directly to this.

The Importance of Choosing the Right Pouch

Choosing an ostomy pouch is crucial to proceeding with the next stage of your life in comfort and good health. Although this aspect of your life has changed, the rest of your life can be lived like normal. Having the right tools and a range of products to choose from can help you do just that. The one-piece and two-piece pouch systems are important to understand because the activities associated with each differ. If you’re looking to participate in sports, the two-piece system may be more advantageous as it is much easier to switch between different types and sizes of pouches. In contrast, the entire arrangement of the one-piece pouch has to be removed to switch ostomy pouches.

Adapting to the Pouching System

Navigating through the different pouching systems and accessories can be daunting. Knowing the type of life you want to live after your surgery can aid in the process of figuring out what is best for you. A significant piece of information to remember is that you will never be forced into using a certain ostomy pouch or ostomy accessory. In the beginning, try out different brands and different pouches – closed vs. open and one-piece vs. two-piece. The only way to know what works best for you is to be open to modification and adjustment. Knowing the fit may not be perfect the first time you try but having a positive outlook can help to alleviate frustration.

If you’ve had trouble finding the right product, head to CanMedDirect.ca. They carry over 25 of the best ostomy products ranging in price. Patience and understanding your choices are the best ways to find the right fit for your body and will help you to live a healthy life going forward.