Frequently Asked Questions
Living with a Stoma - Your Questions Answered

Below you will find some frequently asked questions and answers. If you have any further questions, please ask your Stomal Therapy Nurse or contact your local Ostomy Association.

How often should I change my appliance?  
This is an individual decision, however, it is recommended that: One Piece Colostomy Bag - change when bowels have worked or when the pouch is half full. One Piece Drainable Bag - may  be worn for up to three days.Two Piece system with a wafer - the wafer may be worn for up to three days.

What should I use to clean my stoma?
Clean warm tap water and soft cotton wipes is all that is needed.  When bathing or showering the pouch may be removed and a mild soap may be used.  Avoid using soaps containing moisturisers and oils as these can interfere with the adhesion of the pouch or wafer.

Do I have to pay for my supplies?
No.The Commonwealth Government fully subsidises stoma appliances and most accessories. The only cost involved is a small membership fee you pay to your Ostomy Association, this helps meet the cost of distributing your appliances to you. Freight may be chargeable, please check with your Association

How do I obtain my supplies?
To receive subsidised appliances, you must hold a Membership Entitlement Card Supplied by the Health Insurance Commission (HIC). This card can be applied for and obtained through your local Ostomy Association. Your Stomal Therapy Nurse can assist you with joining your nearest Ostomy Association.

How should I store my supplies?
Appliances should be stored in a cool place, away from heat and direct sunlight.  They should be used in rotation, ie. use older stock first.

Can I get my stoma pouch wet when I bathe or shower?
Yes.  It is fine to bathe or shower for a short period with your pouch or wafer on.  The water will not reduce the adhesion of the pouch or wafer.

Are there any foods I should avoid?
If a certain food disagreed with you before surgery, chances are it will still disagree - avoid these foods.  Everyone is different and what suits one person may cause problems with the next.  Introduce one new food a day and have small portions to start with.  ILEOSTOMATES SHOULD AVOID foods which are not digested as these may cause blockage e.g. dried fruit, potato skins, mushrooms, skins on fruit, sweetcorn and popcorn.

Can I travel abroad?
Yes. There is no reason why you cannot.  Pack your equipment in hand baggage and also in your suitcase in case one piece of luggage goes missing. Remember to pre cut your cut to fit pouches or wafers as scissors will be confiscated by airport security.  A rule of thumb is to take twice as much equipment as you normally use.  Take the appliances out of the boxes and pack flat, this way they take up much less room.  A travel certificate (in different languages) may be useful to facilitate passing through customs with medical equipment.  This can be obtained from your stoma care professional or from Dansac direct.  If you are visiting a hot country keep your pouches and wafers in a cool bag.

How can I get to meet other people who have stomas?
Ask your Stomal Therapy Nurse.  She will be be able to put you in touch with a patient support group in your area and also tell you of any patient open days planned. Ostomy Australia and New Zealand Ostomate Journals also contain listings of Associations and support groups.