Life with a stoma can be challenging, and most of us face concerns or complications at some point. We’re all dealing with different things, some of which I touched on in my previous blog about common struggles after stoma surgery. The good news is that many of these concerns have solutions—you just need to know where to look!

Let’s start with the basics: the bag itself. Then we’ll move on to base layers, support for exercise and fitness, and other handy items that can make everyday life a bit easier.

Secrets and Dignity

Underwear

Specialist briefs and boxers can be purchased from Comfizz, or check out the more sustainable bamboo ostomy briefs from Theya Healthcare. Some underwear includes an internal pocket to minimize irritation, like those from CUI Wear for men and women, White Rose Collection for men and women, and Vanilla Blush.

Wraps

Some people prefer ostomy wraps to keep the bag flat, rather than high-waisted underwear. They’re also useful during sexual activity to keep everything out of the way. You can find a variety of colours and fabrics on Amazon and Etsy. Unspoken Rosebud offers beautiful lace fabrics for women.

Belts

ComfortBelts are designed to support and conceal your ostomy bag. They have a slimmer band than most waistbands and a little pocket for the bag. There are cheaper versions online, but I haven’t tried them, so I can’t comment on the quality difference.

Exercise and active lifestyles

Hernia prevention and support bands

Waistbands designed for exercise and hernia prevention can be found at Comfizz and Vanilla Blush. Depending on your GP, some may be available on prescription. I tried both, but neither suited me. Instead, I got a bespoke item from CUI Wear, measured by a nurse. It is brilliant—comfortable and supportive. Support underwear and vests are also available from these manufacturers.

Swimwear

Specialist swimwear is available from White Rose Collection for men and women, CUI Wear for men and women, Comfizz for men and women, and Vanilla Blush. I have a bikini from Vanilla Blush that hides my bag well. I also have lots of none specialist swimwear – ruched and patterned swimwear hide the bag really well, and high waists, of course!

Stoma protectors

Stoma shields or guards protect your stoma in situations where it might get knocked, like at theme parks or during contact sports. Some require belts, while others stay put under waistbands and underwear. Comfizz offers the cheapest options at £34, with most retailing around £40. Ostomy Armour provides heavy-duty guards, so if you work in a field such as the police force, I imagine these would be really useful.

Clothing

Chums offers a variety of high-waist, braces, and elasticated waistband clothing for men and women. White Rose Collection has jeggings and jeans for women. I Am Denim focuses on jeans, joggers, and shorts, mainly for women. Comfizz offers leggings and vests/tops for both men and women. Vanilla Blush also has leggings for men and women.

Everything Else

Seatbelt protector: Comfizz sells protectors for those whose stoma is under the seatbelt. Seatbelt adaptors for pregnant women might also help, as would the stoma protectors/guards mentioned above.

A Bear Named Buttony: This charity gifts bears with stomas and books to support children and young people with a stoma.

OstoBuddy App: This app helps ostomates manage their stoma, with reminders for changing bags, ordering supplies, and logging output.

If you’re dealing with issues like leaks, burnt skin, or pancaking, speak to your stoma nurse. There are many potential causes, so the solutions vary. You could also check out this list of ostomy bag and supporting product manufacturers.

That’s everything! I hope you enjoyed this quick tour of day-to-day supporting products for people with a stoma!