Swimming with an ostomy is highly recommended for maintaining an active lifestyle and physical fitness. Modern ostomy appliances use water-resistant hydrocolloid adhesives, meaning the barrier is designed to withstand exposure to water. The primary goal for a confident swim is to proactively maintain the secure seal of the appliance against the skin, preventing water infiltration that could lead to skin irritation or premature barrier lifting. By employing targeted preparation steps and using specialized external aids, you can ensure the integrity of your system remains strong during and after time in the water.
Essential Pre-Swim Appliance Checks
Maximizing the appliance’s seal strength begins with timing the barrier change appropriately. Apply a new pouching system between 12 and 24 hours before swimming, allowing the adhesive to fully cure and achieve maximum bond strength. A freshly applied barrier may not have reached peak adhesion, increasing the risk of edge lifting when submerged.
Inspect the area around the stoma to ensure a snug fit, leaving no more than an eighth of an inch of exposed skin. To fill minor dips or creases, apply a flexible barrier ring or a thin bead of paste directly around the stoma. This material creates a smooth, level surface that securely meets the appliance barrier and prevents water from migrating underneath the adhesive. Just before entering the water, ensure the pouch is completely empty to keep it low-profile and prevent ballooning while swimming.
Utilizing External Waterproofing Aids
For an extra layer of security, external waterproofing aids are highly effective for ensuring the barrier edges remain flat against the skin. A common practice is “picture-framing,” which involves securing the perimeter of the skin barrier with waterproof medical tape. Taping materials like hydrocolloid strips, Hy-Tape, or elastic barrier extenders are placed half on the appliance wafer and half on the skin, forming a continuous, flexible seal that resists peeling.
These extenders are helpful in areas prone to movement, like the abdomen, where swimming can stress the adhesive bond. Specialized ostomy support belts or wraps can be worn over the appliance to provide gentle compression and stability. This physical support prevents the pouch from moving excessively or tugging on the skin barrier, which is a common cause of premature failure in water. Some appliance manufacturers offer water-resistant barriers designed with robust hydrocolloid formulations that swell less when exposed to moisture, enhancing security.
Immediate Post-Swim Care Routine
Once you exit the water, the priority is to thoroughly dry the appliance to protect the skin and prolong the barrier’s wear time. Use a clean, absorbent towel to gently pat the pouch and the skin barrier completely dry, focusing especially on the edges. This action quickly removes surface moisture that could compromise the adhesive’s integrity.
If necessary, a hairdryer set to the lowest heat and speed setting can be used to ensure the barrier and the surrounding skin are entirely dry. Keep the heat low, as excessive temperatures can melt the adhesive materials and compromise the seal. After drying, check the barrier edges carefully for any signs of lifting or persistent dampness. If the seal appears compromised or you have been in the water for an extended period, changing the pouching system is the safest measure to prevent skin irritation.