Living with an ostomy can be challenging at times. However, with the right ostomy care accessories, it is possible to manage an ostomy effectively and keep discomfort to a minimum. In this article, we will discuss some of the most important ostomy care accessories and how they can help improve one's quality of life after surgery.

Pouching Systems

The pouching system is arguably the most essential ostomy care accessory as it collects waste from the stoma. There are various types of pouches available depending on one's lifestyle and needs. Two-piece pouches separate the adhesive wafer from the collection bag, allowing for easy changes. One-piece pouches combine the wafer and bag into one unit for convenience. Drainable pouches have a closure that allows contents to be emptied without removing the entire pouch. Cut-to-fit pouches come in sheets or rings that can be custom fitted to work with different stoma sizes and shapes. Having options for pouch types is important to find a system that fits one's lifestyle.

Adhesive Wafer/Baseplate

The adhesive wafer or baseplate acts as the anchor for the pouching system, adhering it securely to the skin around the stoma. Similar to pouches, wafers come in various sizes and adhesive types. Flexible wafer edges that don't have a sharp cut-off are gentler on tender skin. Some wafers are made of softer hydrocolloid or silicone materials which are less irritating than traditional hard plastic ones. Always having extra wafers on hand is important as adhesion breaks down over time in water. Spare wafers allow seamless pouch changes without risking leakages.

Accessory Products

There are numerous accessory products that make daily ostomy care more comfortable and discreet. Pouch covers come in different styles like bikini cuts or extended lengths to fit under clothing discreetly. Belts or guard strips provide additional adhesion support, especially when being active. Deodorising discs, sprays or drops help control odour. Skin barriers, seals or protective pastes prevent irritation and protect the fragile skin around the stoma. Carrying ostomy supplies conveniently is made easy with ostomy bags or packs designed for travel. Having these extra items ensures potential problems are addressed before they arise.

Stoma Measuring and Cutting Tools

Properly measuring and cutting wafer openings to fit one's unique stoma size and shape is key to achieving a good seal. Stoma measurement tools like disposable tracing templates, re-usable measuring rings, or sizing guides help mark the dimensions accurately on new wafers. Specialty cutting devices make clean, precise holes in wafers. Scissors or pen-knife style cutters give general shapes while curved-edge cutters account for different stoma contours. Hollister and Coloplast both offer comprehensive cutting kits for fitting various wafer styles precisely. With practice, these tools allow custom cuts for wafers that lay perfectly flat against the skin.

Hygiene and Skin Care Products

Keeping the skin around the stoma fresh and clean is as important as the pouching system. Gentle soap-free cleansers or spray wipes remove odor and residue while preserving the skin's natural moisture barrier. Thick barrier creams, pastes or sprays form a protective seal over irritated areas to promote healing. Anti-leak solutions seal stoma mucus plugs preventing output between pouch changes. Antifungals treat infections while skin-friendly adhesive removers reduce pain of adhesive residue. Well-stocked ostomy first-aid kits with these essentials allow minor problems to be addressed at home instead of escalating.

Support Groups and Education

No discussion of ostomy care Accessories would be complete without emphasizing the value of support groups and education resources. Speaking with other ostomates about personal experiences navigating lifestyle adjustments and product choices is invaluable. Certified wound and ostomy nurses provide crucial pre-and post-op training on stoma care. Websites like UCandCrohns.com and major manufacturer sites offer visual learning guides, 24/7 chat support and sample kits. Local United Ostomy Associations hold meetups and seminars covering insurance, travel tips, intimate relationships and more challenging topics. Together these resources empower individuals to successfully self-manage their ostomy over the long term.


With advancements in modern ostomy products and accessories, living fully with an ostomy is entirely possible. Taking time to learn about available options, understand one's unique needs and seek peer support leads to greater comfort and confidence with ostomy care. Mastering simple routines with the right accessories in place minimizes disruptions to daily life. Though an adjustment, with preparation and perseverance, most challenges can be smoothly navigated long term.

Get More Insights On Ostomy Care Accessories