Types of ostomy bags and how to select them correctly
How to select your ostomy bag
An ostomy is a surgical procedure with a hole made by a surgeon to allow stool, urine, or both to pass out of the body through the abdomen. The reason why people require an ostomy is varied but usually it is due to a dysfunction of the urinary or digestive system. Ostomies save lives because they allow the body to perform necessary functions that would otherwise not be able to occur. In some cases ostomy surgery is temporary and in other cases they are permanent solutions.
Once the ostomy is performed, you will be left with an opening or stoma. A stoma is the part of your ureter or small or large intestine that attaches to the skin through an opening and should be connected to an external pouch to drain waste from the body.
If you need an ostomy and you get a stoma, for whatever medical reason indicated by your doctor, you will need to find an ostomy bag. For some people, this news can be difficult to deal with. It will change the way you move around during the day and will require some essential adaptations. However, there are different sizes, shapes and functional characteristics for ostomy bags or appurtenances that help you lead a normal life. There are a variety of options that can make choosing the right ostomy pouch overwhelming, but there are some ways to make the selection process easier. In this article, we will explore how to choose an ostomy pouch that works well for your personal lifestyle and preferences.
What is an ostomy bag?
After an ostomy, you will need an ostomy bag to collect the waste that is expelled from the digestive or urinary system. This is connected to your stoma so that it empties directly without any extra effort. Ostomy bags are worn outside the body, but are easily hidden under clothing with belts which also provides support for the abodminal area.1 If you have had an ostomy, it is important to use a proper ostomy bag because it is important to avoid any leakage of urine, stool or gas.
Different types of ostomy bags
At the most basic level, there are three main types of surgery that require ostomy bags. Each type depends on the type of ostomy procedure performed. Once you have an idea of which pouch you will need, you can choose one according to the additional specifications described below.
Colostomy
If you need a colostomy, a portion of your large size is redirected to a stoma, usually on the lower left side of your abdomen.1 Most of the time, this results in consistently firm and formed stool output and will need to be replaced or emptied several times a day.1 Sometimes a temporary colostomy is performed to help heal after surgery or injury, other times the colostomy is permanent.
Urostomy
This type of intervention is performed when the small intestine is used to divert urine from the ureters through the stoma. This is done when the bladder is removed or needs to be diverted in order to heal. A urostomy creates a stoma that is usually located on the right side of the abdomen.
Ileostomy
An ileostomy is performed when your small intestine is redirected through a stoma, usually on the right side of your abdomen. This results in the need for frequent discarding, which will affect your preference for pouch types.
Selecting the right bag
Keep in mind that everyone is different, which means that preferences for types of ostomy bags will vary. Because of this, there are several different features and options for choosing which type of pouch to use. Being able to get the ostomy pouch right and having the suitable accessories can help you stay comfortable and maintain a lifestyle similar to the one you had before. Each product or accessory works well for different activities, so if you have an active lifestyle, it may be beneficial to get the accessory or bag that helps in the corresponding environment.
The main difference between the various ostomy bag options is whether it is a one-piece or two-piece variation. One-piece ostomy pouches inseparably include the disc or skin barrier while two-piece pouches keep the skin barrier disc and the pouch separate.
One-piece ostomy bags
A one-piece ostomy pouch has the pouch and the skin barrier disc inseparable, so the entire system needs to be changed with each replacement. One-piece pouches are good for people who want a more discreet ostomy pouch, but can cause more discomfort and irritation than a two-piece pouch. This is a good option if you are active or play sports.
Two-piece ostomy bags
Two-piece ostomy bags are generally considered more comfortable and tend to cause less irritation. The skin barrier disc can be kept in place for 2-4 days without changing it and the pouch can be changed without removing the disc. Because the parts are separated, it is easy to change the pouch quickly.
Closed End Ostomy Bags
Closed-end ostomy bags are made for single use only and should be discarded when full to avoid infection or leakage. Depending on your production and/or eating habits, a closed-end ostomy bag may be the best option.
Drainable bags
A drainable ostomy pouch allows you to empty the contents of your pouch and then reuse it. This would be a good option for people who are busy and need more versatility with their ostomy pouch.
Ostomy bags with pre-cut discs
A pre-cut disc ostomy bag has an opening that is standardized and does not come to the exact size of your specific stoma. This is fine if you know and match the size of your stoma and it does not change over time, but there may be more risk of leakage.
Ostomy bags with cut-to-length discs
A custom-made ostomy bag is one of the safest options for prevent leakage. Because the disc is measured and cut specifically to the size and shape of your stoma, you will avoid leakage and have a more comfortable pouch. This will also reduce external irritation.
Ostomy bags with convex disc
Some people prefer bags with convex discs, which tend to stick out more. Ostomy bags with convex discs help accommodate stomas, folds, telescopic stomas and are better suited to skin wrinkles and post-surgical scars.
Ostomy bags with flat discs
Most ostomy bags have flat discs and an adhesive to hold the ostomy pouch in a fixed position. This creates a more discreet pouch fit since the pouch would be flush with your body.
Pediatric Ostomy Bags
Pediatric ostomy bags are smaller and are made for babies or children. However, they can also be used for adults who prefer the discretion of a smaller pouch. If this is the case, they should be emptied more frequently to prevent them from overflowing.
You should keep in mind that finding the right product or accessory may require a little trial and error so you need to have some patience to make something work for you.
It is always advisable to try ostomy products on a different part of your skin to ensure that you do not suffer allergic reactions. It is also very important to discontinue the product or accessory whenever you notice discomfort, pain or any bleeding and to inform your specialist or surgeon as soon as possible.
In Ostocare you can find the ostomy bag accessories in order to help you hold the different ostomy bags so that you can feel more comfortable. Always we are committed to helping improve the lives of people living with an ostomy by offering a wide range of ostomy supplies with custom-made products for their needs.
Do you have any more questions? Don't hesitate to get in touch with us. We will be delighted to offer you our personalised advice.