Frustrated with Barrier Rings and Considering Switching to One-Piece

Not particularly. I think it might be worse, because there is less space between the skin and the bag (because the flange/coupling mechanism takes space). 

I mean, I'm 2 lbs over the “healthy” weight for my height. So yes, but… barely?

My stomach is soft though, due to the inflammation from the surgery, and the 3 children I carried in it. No folds though, just soft.

 

Color me shocked to find out they actually sent me several different kinds in the sample.

I was using the Moldable Ring - did not like it. It smelled when it got moist. It was hard to get to stick.

Then I used the Convatec Eakin Slims, which I liked - but I ran out of them and reached into the bag to try the Brava again - planned to cut it and use smaller pieces.

I audibly exclaimed when I discovered it was not a Brava Moldable Ring, but a Brava Protective Seal, which I wanted to try.

No smell. It's huge though, so I cut it this last time. I will get 3-4 uses out of each one.

It sounds like maybe your ostomy area may not be cleaned well enough, or you may have gotten lotion or conditioner on the area. When you clean the area, use Dial White or Ivory. First, use adhesive remover wipes, making sure you get all buildup of adhesive and barrier wipes off. Barrier wipes tend to build up, which is why I no longer use them. After removing the adhesive, take a soapy wet paper towel or washcloth and clean up the area, then wipe with plain water a few times with more paper towels or another clean washcloth. Pat dry. Put your barrier ring around the hole on the bag instead of around your stoma, making sure it's exactly on the edges of the hole of the bag. If you don't like Brava rings, Hollister makes Adapt and Cera rings that are much better. Also, is your stoma flat, or does it stick out in your bag? If your stoma is flush or flat, you will need a bag with convexity.

Be careful about anything like hand lotion or conditioners getting on your stoma area. It will cause the bags to leak or loosen your seal.

I stopped using barrier wipes as I found they are not needed unless I get irritated; then I might use Cavilon until I clear up. I use a one-piece bag, and I like it much better.

Thanks for the reply, how quickly we learn. Turns out it was the Brava moldable ring that I didn’t care for, not barrier rings in general.

I prefer to put the ring around my stoma, so I can ensure all the skin is covered.

I was (at the time of this post) only changing in the shower, so washing thoroughly with soap. 

I’m actually trying a sample of the Hollister Cera Ring right now! I 

Stories of Living Life to the Fullest from Ostomy Advocates I Hollister

May try a convex barrier or ring; it pulls the stomach out a bit and discourages pancaking.

I have an ileostomy. May I ask if your stomach is flush with your body? If it is, you may need a convex barrier or ring. My stomach was inverted, so I use both a convex ring and barrier.