Struggling with Colostomy Pouch Leaks and Pain

I had a permanent colostomy in August last year, 2012. I cannot accept this condition; it's disgusting, revolting. I don't think I will ever get used to it. I feel that I stink; the pouches have been leaking all the time. It's got to the stage that I am afraid. I was given new pouches yesterday, which are secured with a belt. Also, I have a hernia which is like a mountain sticking out of my stomach. The last 3 days I have had awful pain at the top of my belly. Any info would be gratefully received. kk

Have faith, lots of people manage a colostomy and live almost normal, happy, productive lives. What was the reason for your operation? Perhaps you qualify for irrigation. Getting a good seal takes a little time and experimentation. Do you use the Eakin seals? How do you prep the area before you apply your appliance? A lot of newbies wash the area with soap that contains moisturizers, perfumes, etc., which almost always prevents a good seal. I have a colostomy and can get 10 days without a leak... you can too once you find out what method/products work for you. Everyone here will help you get through this...
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Aww, I am sorry you are having such an ordeal. Remember, it hasn't even been a year yet. It takes time and yes, lots of experimenting. There are many wonderful forum posts and blogs that may be helpful that you can read. If you have specific questions that you don't see an answer for or need more information about, ask and someone will do their best to help. Be specific about what you are doing or have tried and don't forget we do have a chat room where you can go to talk to a live person(s) if someone is there. You could also make a post about being in chat on a certain day looking for help about whatever it is you need. Giving us a heads up for those who may be available to come at that time and day to help you.

I do not know what could be causing your pain, it might be a good idea to talk to your doctor.

It does get easier when the pouches don't leak, but only you can come to terms with what you have to deal with. I still can't handle the clear pouches; it just makes me want to gag, but it's okay because I don't have to use clear bags, or I can cover it with a pouch cover I made.

This is something you are going to have for the rest of your life, so you better get used to it and stop feeling sorry for yourself. Change the appliance you are using. My own experience has been to go to a one-piece closed-end pouch. It is easy to put on and take off, and there is no rinsing and all the other stuff involved. You take your pouch off, put it in a zip lock bag, and then a brown paper bag into the garbage. Put the new pouch on, and you are ready to go. I use a mini pouch so it doesn't dangle on your leg, which always upset me with all of the closures. I also do not use any rings, skin prep, or any of the other things people say to use. Make it simple, and you will adjust. As for your hernia, those are easy to have taken care of, and it is up to you as to how you look. You need to realize that you are not the only person with an ostomy, so accept it. Hope you have a great day because you are alive and a beautiful person.

There are nurses that specialize in all types of ostomies. Contact one through your doctor or hospital. It shouldn't be this hard. I think everyone goes through this as a part of discovering what works, but believe me, a trained nurse will be a godsend.
Eddie

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

I just tried using barrier strips to put around the flange. They really help prevent leakage and I feel so much more secure using them. I wish I had tried using them sooner. I know how you feel; I have felt the same way and I have had my colostomy for about 2 years. And once you have a leakage, it seems there is always that anxiety of having another, especially in public. But there are different products out there to sample and try. And I personally love these barrier strips. But everyone is different.
Donna

Hey Katy,
I guess it's still early days for you. I never look at my stoma and think, "God, you're gorgeous," but I never looked at my arse like that when it worked either. I think you need to give it time and not allow it to take over your life. That being said, it's easy to say that when you're not getting leaks. I think that's what you have to focus on: taming the thing, whipping it into shape. Get some help, and when you feel you have got some control, you get on with your life; it will be less of an issue for you.
Star x