FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What are the different types of ostomy bag covers?
You can opt for ostomy pouch covers, ostomy belts, or ostomy wraps and each of these types serves several purposes. For instance, you can use plain colostomy bag covers to simply conceal the contents of your bag, or you can opt for a cover with a funny print, a motivational quote, or custom embroidery to match your style. The fabric you choose should be soft and comfortable to help reduce skin irritation. If you also want support, consider an ostomy belt with adjustable Velcro closure or a slip-on ostomy wrap.
How can I hide my colostomy bag?
The easiest way to hide colostomy bags is either with an ostomy belt fitted with a pocket for bag discretion or with an ostomy wrap with a full pouch. Belts, wraps, and covers for colostomy bags can be made of athletic clothing fabrics, swimwear fabrics, or soft knitted fabrics that you would typically associate with pajamas and loungewear. They are also practical for concealing any one-piece or two-piece ileostomy and urostomy bags, and they come in sizes suitable for men, women, and children.
How do you shower with a colostomy bag?
You may want to shower without a colostomy bag on the days when you are changing the pouch and with one on the other days — it is entirely up to you. Note that colostomy bags are waterproof so you don't need to take extra precautions when you wear one in the shower. If you are using colostomy bags with filters, then you should cover the filter with a protective sticker — this is usually included with the stoma bag. Waterproof shower covers for colostomy bags are also available and you may want to use them when showering at the gym or going for a swim in the pool, simply to conceal the contents of the pouch. While most ostomy bag covers and holders are machine-washable, shower covers should simply be hand-washed with cool or lukewarm water and left to air dry.
How do people with colostomy bags wear clothes?
Please know that stoma surgery should not affect the clothes that you wear and it all depends on what makes you feel comfortable. You can try different waistband heights to see what works best for you; just make sure that the clothes are not too tight around the pouch. Colostomy bag covers do a good job at hiding the ostomy pouches, and belts and wraps also offer additional support. Of all the available types, ostomy wraps are the best at reducing pouch visibility under clothing, especially if they are fitted with an internal lining for bag discretion.
What is an ostomy wrap?
Ostomy wraps are soft and stretchy tubes of fabric that you can slip on to cover and support ostomy bags of all types and sizes. They hold the pouch flat against your body, either vertically or horizontally, and provide easy access for drainage. Depending on the fabric, you can wear them around the house, while exercising or when going for a swim. StomaSafe Classic Ostomy Support Garment, for instance, enables you to live an active life and feel more secure by reducing pouch and content noise. It is breathable and washable, plus you can also wear it safely when you go to sleep.
Where can I buy colostomy bag covers?
AllegroMedical.com offers a wide range of colostomy bag covers, as well as other ostomy supplies that make living with a stoma much easier. Besides ostomy wraps, belts, and covers for colostomy bags, you can also get convenient ostomy accessories such as deodorants, appliance cleansers, or drainable pouch clamps, along with the best selection of ostomy skin care products. You get the best price guarantee, as well as the possibility to pay for your order in 4 interest-free installments with AfterPay.
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The information, including but not limited to text, graphics, images, charts, and any other material on this site, is intended for informational purposes only and does not take the place of medical guidance provided by your physician. No information on this site is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult a qualified medical professional about your condition or circumstances before undertaking a new healthcare regimen.