The first few times you change your colostomy bag on your own it will almost certainly feel challenging. Make sure that the first couple of times you try changing your bag, you do it somewhere you feel safe and comfortable.
Take your time – it is completely okay if at first you don't get it right every time. Though it may take some getting used to, it will soon feel like a routine matter to you.
Getting into a routine
It will be very helpful if you can try to establish a routine for changing your ostomy bag. A good rule of thumb, when using a closed pouch, is to change your pouch every time your stoma has worked.
How often does the appliance need changing?
It's hard to put an exact number on how often you should change your ostomy appliance. However, you should always change it if you feel itching or burning from the skin surrounding your stoma.
Output from a colostomy is not too different from a normal bowel movement. The output is generally solid, and the appliance should be changed between one and three times a day.
Before use, always consult the 'Instructions for use' document delivered with the products
