I am going on my first Caribbean cruise and I would love to be able to swim with my friends. However, I am worried about my Hollister flange getting wet. Any suggestions on keeping it dry? I did read about Hypafix tape but am not sure if that would work. Do I just tape the flange...?
Blanca
Oct 05, 2024 4:10 pm
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infinitycastle52777
Oct 05, 2024 6:36 pm
I swim and I wear a wrap but that's all I need to keep it secure. Enjoy your time with friends and try not to worry about it.
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w30bob
Oct 05, 2024 7:33 pm
Oh no... you can't go swimming! If your barrier leaks, you'll fill up with water through your stoma and sink to the bottom! It's a terrible way to go!
Ok... just kidding. As stated, you can use extenders if you're concerned about the edges of your barrier lifting, or you can use any waterproof medical grade tape. Unless you plan on spending hours on end in the water, you won't have any problems.
Have fun!
;O)
Justbreathe
Oct 05, 2024 7:52 pm
Reply to w30bob
Hah - can't tell you how many times I've said that about my stoma... "It is a terrible way to go"!!! jb
Cheekymonkey111
Oct 05, 2024 9:28 pm
Just go for it. My ileostomy never stopped me from going swimming.
I just went this Saturday to a clothing optional swim.
Nothing on but my bag, very liberating.
TerryLT
Oct 05, 2024 10:43 pm
Most ostomates get their appliances wet every day when they shower or bathe, so getting it wet is not an issue. I swim regularly and then go into the steam room, where it's hot and humid as well as wet, then back into the pool for another while, before a final steam. I've never had a problem, and I've never done anything special, ie, extenders, etc. If it makes you feel more secure, as others have said, use the extenders. Go and enjoy yourself!
Terry
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Returning to work after ostomy surgery should not be rushed.
Check out our 4 necessities before getting back on the job, and our other workplace tips.
Check out our 4 necessities before getting back on the job, and our other workplace tips.
yew
Oct 13, 2024 6:05 pm
I have swum with an ileostomy. Tape the flange with a certain water repellent or paper
tape. Use a hair dryer on cool or warm on the ostomy.
You are set to go and enjoy!
Heather Williamson
Oct 13, 2024 6:22 pm
Guess what? The pouch is waterproof on the inside, so it is on the outside too! I use the extenders all around when swimming - and since I don't like the feel of the wet pouch on my skin, I purchased a bathing suit made for us - with a little pocket to hold it away from your skin. Both SIIL and CUI make beautiful bathing suits.
funnygurl
Oct 13, 2024 9:55 pm
There is a product that you can put over your flange to seal it. I use it for hot springs and hot tubs https://myeverythingstore.ca/products/ostomy-essentials-flange-seal-rings-size-medium-45mm-57mm-70mm?gad_source=1&gbraid=0AAAAACIxr0bbJvbpAPwOhMUsJAG1fVx0q&gclid=EAIaIQobChMIluKVvquMiQMVmAutBh2cTRoAEAYYBCABEgJBQfD_BwE&variant=41383173816517
Invented in Canada by an ostomate.
Starlight 444
Oct 19, 2024 6:03 pm
I go abroad every year and sit by the pool all day sunbathing, in and out of the pool. I have an ileostomy and have never had any problems at all. So go and enjoy yourself and don't worry, you will be okay.
Carey
Oct 24, 2024 7:21 pm
I too am going on a Caribbean cruise in November. This has been very helpful for me, since I had just had a total ostomy done in May. I also plan to take enough supplies to be able to change my bag daily if I would by chance need to. I learned this from also being a diabetic for 42 years.