As you start thinking about planning a vacation, you would do well to consider some quite practical things beforehand – especially If you're going somewhere warm.
A short guide to ostomy swimwear
The best piece of advice is to try before you buy. Unfortunately buying specialty ostomy swimwear is no guarantee for optimal fit. On the other hand, you might be able to find regular swimwear that fits your needs perfectly.
Women might want to look at a one-piece bathing costume with detailing or patterns across the stomach area to cover up the ostomy bag.
Men can try wearing lycra-type swimming trunks underneath a looser pair of shorts to help hold the bag in place.
Going somewhere warm?
Remember to apply suncream after you put on your ostomy bag. The lotion could affect the adhesive and make it harder to stick. If the climate is hot or humid enough to make you sweat more than usual, you may need to change your bag more frequently.
Make sure your skin is completely dry before you apply a new ostomy bag, for good adhesion. It can be a bit tricky if the weather is very hot and humid – if drying your skin is difficult, you can use a hairdryer to dry the area (be careful that it doesn't get too hot).
Stay hydrated
With warmth comes a higher risk of dehydration and diarrhoea, but with some preparation you needn't worry. Make sure to drink plenty of water and take medicine for diarrhoea with you, just in case.
Drink bottled water instead of tap water - and perhaps avoid ice cubes as they're usually made from tap water.
How about ostomy bag disposal?
It's usually a good idea to take disposable plastic bags with you when you go out. This way, if you're having trouble finding a suitable rubbish bin where you changed your bag, you can use the plastic bag until you find a bin.
The 6 holiday commandments:
- ALWAYS store your ostomy bags in a cool place
- drink bottled water – and plenty of it
- use bottled drinking water to clean the stoma area when changing your bag
- put your ostomy bag on before you put any suncream on
- seal and empty used ostomy bags and dispose of them with the normal rubbish
- if you feel self-conscious about leaving used ostomy bags in your hotel room, use public bins
