The newer barriers actually melt to obtain adherence. You have to make sure this chemical action has taken place. To be extra secure, it may be best to picture frame the barrier with a waterproof tape. There is a "pink tape" available through most suppliers that works well to assure the appliance stays on your body. Hollister's new skin like tapes as well as other similar types may be made more waterproof by covering them with a skin prep after they are in place. Cloth belts stretch in water. If you wear a belt, it may be preferred to substitute a rubber one while you are swimming.
Swimsuits, with busy patterns camouflage the appliance better than solid colored suits. Wearing solid colors will reveal the appliance more easily. Skirts, bows, sashes, ties, drapes on a swimsuit may also help camouflage the appliance. Boxer-style trunks work well for men. A tight garment under your swimsuit can help hold the appliance in place.
Depending on how active you are and the level of comfort you desire some of the following are good suggestions:
Mini, non-drainable pouches are an alternative to people who use two-piece systems. They may be more comfortable and have a lower profile under swimsuits than your usual pouch. They may be used over and over if you rinse them out and air dry after every use.
Avoid pouches with built-in filters for swimming. Water can get in, and make a real mess. Try and plan ahead for swimming. Even non-ostomates should wait two hours after eating before going swimming. Try to roughly calculate your transit time, how long it takes food to get from mouth to pouch, and eat your meals at a time that will allow you to have the least amount of output when you plan to swim. For most people, the first few hours after getting up in the morning will be the time of least output.
The conclusion to all of this, the main reason for writing this article is so that you go swimming. An ostomy does not stop you, or even slow you down from swimming and enjoying all the different type of water activities like hot tubs, beaches, pools, scuba diving, snorkeling, diving, swimming, etc. Enjoy it…you have been given a new life.
