Having a stoma—a surgically created opening on the abdomen for waste passage—does not mean giving up water activities. Modern ostomy appliances are designed to be water-resistant and secure, allowing patients to enjoy swimming and other water sports. With proper preparation and the use of readily available accessories, swimming can remain a regular and enjoyable part of life.
Preparing Your Stoma Appliance for Water Exposure
The primary goal before entering the water is to create a secure, watertight seal to protect the skin and prevent leakage. A newly applied pouching system provides the best security. Ideally, the adhesive barrier should be in place for at least an hour before submersion, allowing the material time to fully bond. Many people apply a fresh wafer the night before a planned swim to maximize adhesion time.
To enhance security, barrier extenders, sometimes called crescent strips, should be placed around the perimeter of the wafer. These flexible strips overlap the adhesive edge, preventing water from causing the edges to lift or “roll.” For individuals with a two-piece system, swapping the regular pouch for a smaller, closed mini-bag or stoma cap can reduce bulk and the chance of the bag catching in the water.
Before donning a swimsuit, completely empty the ostomy pouch to minimize weight and reduce the risk of output accumulation. If the appliance includes a filter meant to deodorize and vent gas, a specialized filter cover sticker must be placed over it. This sticker prevents water from entering the pouch through the filter, which could compromise the bag’s function.
Managing Output and Movement While Swimming
Once in the water, the pouching system is safe and secure. Due to the hydrostatic pressure exerted by the water, output from the stoma may naturally slow down or even stop temporarily. However, gas production continues, meaning the pouch can still inflate or “balloon” while swimming. If ballooning occurs, the pouch can be discreetly “burped” to release the air, often possible even under a supportive swimsuit.
Wearing a neoprene ostomy support belt or wrap is recommended, as it holds the pouch close to the body, preventing it from floating or creating a noticeable “buoy” effect. These belts also stabilize the appliance during movement, adding physical security.
The temperature of the water can affect the appliance’s adhesive properties. Cold water may cause the wafer to stiffen slightly, while very warm water, such as in a hot tub, can soften the adhesive more quickly, potentially reducing the appliance’s wear time. Gentle swimming movements are encouraged, but avoid aggressive water sports, diving, or jumping that could place sudden, high pressure on the wafer’s seal.
Essential After-Swim Care for Ostomy Patients
Upon exiting the water, prompt attention to the appliance is necessary to preserve the adhesive seal and protect the surrounding skin. Immediately rinse the pouch and wafer area thoroughly with fresh water to remove any chemical residue. This is particularly important after swimming in chlorinated pools or saltwater, as these can irritate the skin and accelerate the breakdown of the adhesive.
The wet adhesive barrier should be dried by gently patting it with a clean towel, avoiding rubbing motions that could cause the edges to lift. Many modern adhesives are heat-activated; once moisture is removed, the body’s natural warmth helps the wafer re-adhere more securely. If needed, a hairdryer on a low or cool setting can be used to ensure the area is completely dry, but avoid direct, prolonged heat, which can excessively soften the adhesive.
After drying, inspect the entire seal closely for any signs of lifting, saturation, or compromise. If the wafer feels excessively soggy or is peeling away from the skin, the appliance should be changed sooner than the regular schedule.
Addressing Common Concerns About Swimming with an Ostomy
A frequent concern is the visibility of the pouch under a swimsuit and the confidence to be in a public setting. For discretion, many manufacturers offer specialized ostomy swimwear that features internal pockets or reinforced panels to hold the bag securely and minimize its outline. Standard high-waisted bikini bottoms, tankinis, or one-piece swimsuits with ruching or busy patterns are also highly effective at concealing the appliance.
The type of water—whether it is a swimming pool, a freshwater lake, or the ocean—is not a significant concern, as the modern ostomy barrier is designed to withstand all these environments. The main difference lies in the post-swim rinse, which is especially important after saltwater exposure due to its potential drying effect on the skin and adhesive. The risk of water entering the stoma and causing infection is negligible, as the stoma is a mucosal lining that does not absorb water.
Taking the time to test a secure setup in a private pool or bathtub first can significantly boost confidence before heading to a public beach or swimming area.