A stoma bag (ostomy pouch) is a waterproof appliance worn on the abdomen to collect waste after an ostomy procedure. This surgery creates an opening, or stoma, to divert the body’s digestive or urinary output externally. The pouch attaches to the skin around the stoma using an adhesive barrier, creating a secure seal. Learning the proper technique for emptying the pouch is essential for comfort, security, and maintaining hygiene.
Preparation and Timing for Emptying
Gather necessary supplies before draining, including toilet paper, disposable wipes, and a measurement container if output tracking is required. Having these items within reach minimizes movement and keeps the process clean. Some individuals also prefer to wear disposable gloves for increased hygiene protection during the procedure.
The optimal time to empty a drainable pouch is when it reaches approximately one-third to one-half full of output. Waiting until the pouch is more than half full increases the weight, which exerts downward tension on the adhesive skin barrier. This risks compromising the seal and may lead to leakage. Emptying at the recommended capacity also helps the pouch remain discreet beneath clothing and prevents uncomfortable ballooning from gas accumulation.
Step-by-Step Guide for Draining the Pouch
The physical draining of the pouch begins with finding a comfortable and practical position over the toilet. Many people prefer to sit forward on the toilet seat, separating their legs slightly to allow the pouch to drain directly between them into the bowl. Other options include standing or kneeling facing the toilet, depending on personal mobility and the height of the toilet.
Once positioned, the closure mechanism at the bottom of the pouch, often a plastic clip or a Velcro-style tail, must be unfastened and unrolled. It is helpful to hold the bottom of the pouch and direct the open tail toward the center of the toilet bowl to minimize splashing. To reduce splashback, placing a piece of toilet paper in the water beforehand is a common and effective technique.
The contents are released by gently unrolling the tail completely and allowing gravity to empty the pouch. If the output is thicker, use a gentle squeezing or “milking” motion from the top of the pouch downward toward the opening to encourage flow. The sides of the opening can also be widened slightly to facilitate the flow. Maintain the open position until all residual material has flowed out.
Post-Emptying Hygiene and Sealing
After the pouch is completely emptied, the drainage spout must be thoroughly cleaned before resealing the appliance. Use toilet paper or a disposable wipe to carefully clean the inside and outside edges of the tail opening, removing any remaining residue. This step is important to prevent odor and ensure the closure mechanism can form a secure, leak-proof seal.
Some people choose to apply a few drops of an ostomy deodorizer or lubricant into the pouch at this time, which helps control odor and assists the next output in sliding down the sides of the appliance. It is recommended not to rinse the inside of the pouch with water, as this can potentially weaken the adhesive seal around the stoma.
Once the spout is clean and dry, secure the closure mechanism according to the manufacturer’s design, such as folding the tail multiple times with a clamp or pressing the Velcro closure firmly together. The final step involves a visual inspection of the sealed pouch and the skin barrier to confirm the closure is tight and the adhesive remains securely attached. Proper handwashing with soap and water is necessary to complete the process.