Showering is a daily ritual that many of us take for granted, but for ostomates, it can be a crucial part of our self-care routine. Today, I want to share with you the importance of showering with an ostomy, how I navigate this essential task, and why I view it as an opportunity for both cleanliness and self-care.

Embracing Normalcy: Showering with My Ostomy Bag On

One of the first lessons I learned after ostomy surgery was that my stoma doesn't stop me from enjoying the simple pleasures of life, including a refreshing shower. Showering with my bag on has become second nature to me, and it's a practice that allows me to maintain a sense of normalcy and independence.

Showering with my ostomy bag on offers several benefits:

• Convenience: It's quick, easy, and requires minimal preparation. I can step into the shower without worrying about removing my pouch or disrupting my routine.

• Security: My ostomy pouch is designed to be waterproof, so I can shower with confidence knowing that it will stay securely in place. This gives me peace of mind and allows me to focus on enjoying my shower without any concerns.

• Time-saving: Showering with my bag on saves me valuable time, especially on busy mornings or when I'm in a rush. I can streamline my routine and get on with my day without any unnecessary delays.

Seizing the Opportunity: Changing My Ostomy Bag Before Showering

While showering with my bag on is convenient, I also see it as an opportunity to change my pouch and give my skin a chance to breathe. By incorporating bag changes into my shower routine, I can maintain optimal hygiene and ensure that my skin stays healthy and irritation-free.

Here's how I make the most of this opportunity:

• Preparation: Before stepping into the shower, I gather all the supplies I'll need for a bag change, including a new pouch, adhesive remover, and skin barrier wipes. I also make sure to have a dry towel and a comfortable space to work in.

• Efficiency: I use the time in the shower to gently remove my old pouch and clean the skin around my stoma. The warm water helps soften the adhesive, making it easier to remove without causing any discomfort.

• Thoroughness: Once my skin is clean and dry, I apply a new pouch using proper technique to ensure a secure seal. I take my time to smooth out any wrinkles and ensure that the adhesive is firmly in place. I then sit for 5-10 minutes with a heating pad on the site, ensuring that there is good adhesion between my skin and the appliance. I have found that this steps leads to a considerable decrease in my frequency of pouch changes.

The Importance of Showering with an Ostomy Bag

Showering is more than just a daily task—it's an opportunity to care for ourselves both physically and mentally. For ostomates, maintaining good hygiene is essential for preventing skin irritation, infections, and other complications. By showering regularly and incorporating bag changes into our routine, we can ensure that our skin stays healthy and our confidence remains intact.

Conclusion: Embracing Ostomy Bag Care in the Bathroom

Showering with an ostomy doesn't have to be daunting. Whether I shower with my bag on or take the opportunity to change it before stepping in, I approach each shower with confidence and positivity. By embracing ostomy care in the bathroom, I'm able to maintain my independence, prioritize my health, and start each day feeling clean, refreshed, and ready to take on whatever comes my way.