An ostomy is a surgical opening that allows bodily waste to exit the body into a collection pouch. A common concern is odor management, though a properly sealed appliance should not emit odor. The process of emptying the pouch or a slight leak can cause apprehension. Specialized products, dietary adjustments, and careful appliance maintenance offer effective strategies to manage and prevent unpleasant smells, restoring confidence and making ostomy management discreet.
Using Specialized Deodorizing Products
The most direct approach to controlling ostomy odor involves using products designed to neutralize smells within the collection pouch itself. These specialized deodorizers come in various forms, including liquids, gels, and sprays. Liquid drops are a popular option; a few drops are placed into the empty pouch before application or after draining. These liquids are often water-based and contain odor-neutralizing agents that chemically break down smell-causing molecules instead of masking them with fragrance.
Many deodorizers also function as lubricants, coating the inside of the pouch to assist with emptying and prevent “pancaking,” where stool sticks to the top of the bag. This lubricating action ensures that output slides easily to the bottom, preventing blockages of built-in pouch filters. Blocked filters can lead to gas and odor build-up. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the correct amount.
Spray neutralizers are designed for use in the air or on the outside of the pouch to eliminate residual odors during appliance changes or emptying. Unlike general air fresheners, these sprays are typically unscented and formulated to neutralize odor molecules in the environment. Many modern ostomy pouches are also constructed with charcoal filters. These filters allow gas to escape while using activated carbon to trap and neutralize odor molecules as they pass through.
Controlling Odor Through Diet and Internal Supplements
Managing odor can begin internally by making mindful choices about what is consumed, addressing the source of the smell before it reaches the appliance. Certain foods contain sulfur compounds or are highly fermentable, leading to output with a stronger odor. Common dietary culprits include eggs, fish, garlic, onions, asparagus, and cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, cabbage, and Brussels sprouts.
Keeping a food diary can help identify specific items that trigger strong odors, allowing for informed decisions about limiting or avoiding them before social situations. Conversely, some foods have a natural deodorizing effect on the digestive tract. Incorporating items such as parsley, yogurt with active cultures, cranberry juice, and buttermilk may help to naturally mitigate odor.
For a systematic internal approach, some people use oral supplements like chlorophyll tablets or bismuth subgallate capsules. Chlorophyll, the green pigment in plants, acts as an internal deodorizer by neutralizing odor-causing compounds. Bismuth subgallate, often sold as Devrom, is a common over-the-counter option that works by binding to odor-causing sulfides in the digestive tract. Consult a healthcare professional before beginning any new supplement, as activated charcoal, another internal option, can interfere with the absorption of certain prescription medications.
Ensuring a Secure Appliance Fit
The most complete defense against ostomy odor is maintaining a perfectly sealed and secure appliance, as noticeable odor usually comes from leaks or a compromised seal. The wafer, or skin barrier, must be sized precisely to the stoma to prevent effluent from contacting the skin and escaping under the adhesive. Using accessories like barrier rings or paste helps create a tight, customized seal between the wafer and the skin’s contours, filling in uneven areas.
Regularly checking the seal for signs of lifting or erosion is necessary. The entire appliance should be changed routinely according to the manufacturer’s or a wound ostomy continence nurse’s advice. Waiting too long to change a pouching system can lead to material breakdown, which may absorb odors and reduce adhesive effectiveness. Emptying the pouch when it is about one-third full prevents the weight of the contents from pulling on the seal, which can cause subtle odor-releasing leaks.
Proper hygiene when emptying a drainable pouch is essential to prevent lingering smells. After drainage, the tail closure must be wiped thoroughly to remove residual waste before it is securely fastened. This prevents dried effluent from contaminating the closure mechanism, which could allow a minute amount of odor to escape. A well-fitting, regularly maintained appliance is the primary method for ensuring that odor is contained and undetectable.