Changing your stoma pouch – Everything you need to know about it

A stoma pouch needs to be changed regularly. That much is already clear. However, for new ostomates, changing the pouch can be a challenge – How? When? How often? What needs to be taken into account?

We can tell you one thing right from the start: it's the same for everyone with a new stoma. So it's perfectly okay to struggle with uncertainty at the beginning. However, once you have found a routine, this is no longer an issue!

In the following, we answer all your questions on the subject of changing supply.

How often should the pouch be changed?

A stoma pouch should be changed regularly to protect the skin around the stoma and to ensure hygiene. The frequency of changing depends on the type of pouch and the supply system used.

Systems

One-piece systems: These should generally be changed daily.
Two-piece systems: The pouch should be changed daily when it is full or no longer fulfills its function properly. The baseplate, on the other hand, can remain on the skin for longer, around 2-3 days.

Type of pouch

Colostomy pouches: Closed pouches should always be changed when they are filled to a certain level with stool.
Ileostomy & urostomy pouches: Should always be changed when hygiene and functionality are no longer guaranteed. However, at least daily.

When is a change mandatory?

If the supply is leaking: If the pouch leaks, it must be replaced immediately.
If the skin protection plate detaches from the skin: This indicates poor adhesion and a change is necessary.
If your skin feels uncomfortable under the skin protection plate: This may be a sign of skin irritation.
When the pouch is filled to half of its volume: This is particularly relevant for ileostomy pouches.
If the activated carbon filter of the pouch is exhausted: This can lead to unpleasant odors.

Where is the best place to change the stoma pouch?

A stoma pouch can generally be changed in any place where you feel comfortable and where the necessary hygiene is guaranteed. Many ostomates prefer to change at home, for example at the sink, in front of a mirror or in the bathroom. It is important that you choose a position where you can see well and can carry out the change comfortably.

Whether standing, sitting or in front of the mirror – whatever works best for you is allowed.

Do preparations need to be made?

Please consider the following three points for a pleasant change of supply:

Quiet place

First of all, you should choose a quiet and private room where you have access to a mirror. Make sure you have a pre-cut stoma pouch, a disposable bag, dry wipes and, if needed, a plaster removal spray.

Position

Before you start, position all tools & utensils so that they are within easy reach. Most people choose to stand or sit when changing the pouch. It is entirely up to you which position you feel most comfortable in. Using a mirror can be very helpful to check your stoma and apply the new pouch correctly.

Ostomy utensils & accessories

New supply
3 - 4 moist (water-soaked) cloths or compresses
2 - 3 dry compresses or lint-free soft cloths
Disposal bag (secure with clothespin)
Razor
Scissors
If necessary, plaster remover, skin protection lotion, skin protection paste or rings and hand mirror

If the baseplate is not pre-cut, you can use scissors and a stoma template to cut out the hole required for your stoma.

Tips & Tricks

If you are changing a drainable pouch, you should empty it in a toilet first, as the pouch is then lighter and easier to handle. Make sure you clean the outlet (for ileostomy & urostomy) of your pouch with a piece of toilet paper.

How exactly is a stoma pouch changed?

Prepare materials: Prepare new ostomy appliance (pouch and/or baseplate), compresses, cleaning utensils (e.g. soap, water, cleaning cloths), disposal bag, plaster remover if necessary to ensure they are easily accessible.
Removing the old pouch: Carefully peel off from top to bottom, supporting the skin to avoid tearing it. Use plaster remover if necessary. You can then dispose of the pouch in a small disposable bag.
Clean & care for skin: Clean with warm water and soap if necessary. Please ensure that you do not use perfumed soaps or wipes. If there is hair around the stoma, always shave it carefully away from the stoma with water and without foam – this will protect your skin from irritation and avoid injuries in the sensitive stoma area. After cleaning, you can carefully dry the stoma and the surrounding skin.
Attach a new skin protection plate: Check the diameter of your stoma using a template and adjust the size of the skin protection plate to your stoma if necessary. The opening of the skin protection plate should tightly enclose the stoma. Then remove the protective film from the new appliance and carefully attach the skin adhesive to the skin. Make sure that there are no folds to ensure a good seal. Finally, run your fingers over the back of the adhesive surface and press it down carefully. Skin protection plates are usually made of a hydrocolloid-based material that is activated by body heat and the skin's natural moisture film and therefore adheres well. To promote adhesion, it can be helpful to warm the sheet slightly before applying it, for example by holding it between the palms of your hands. Especially in cooler ambient temperatures, warming can help the material to become more flexible and adhere to the skin faster and better.
Connect new pouch: For two-piece systems, now connect the baseplate to the pouch.

What do I need to consider when fitting a new appliance?

Your skin must be completely dry before applying a new appliance, as moisture can impair the adhesive strength of the skin protection.
If you have used care products such as soaps, creams or wipes, please ensure that they are always pH-neutral and not greasy. This can also have a negative effect on the adhesive strength of the skin protection and irritate your skin.
Intact and healthy skin in the area around the stoma is a prerequisite for optimal adhesion and functionality of the appliance. If you have problems with sore, irritated skin, please speak to your doctor or your stoma nurse.
Pay attention to resting phases of your stoma in order to find the perfect time for a change of supply.
o In the case of an ileostomy, it is advisable to empty or change the stoma pouch before breakfast if possible. As excretion takes place almost continuously, it is difficult to determine a completely free moment. However, the activity of the stoma is usually at its lowest before the first meal, which is why this time is particularly suitable.

o With a colostomy, there are often natural rest periods during the course of the day when the stoma does not promote elimination. There is therefore no generally valid recommendation for the optimal time to change the supply – this should be individually adapted to the personal rhythm and daily habits.

How do I know that my pouch fits perfectly?

Tight fit without leaks: No stool or urine leaks from under the baseplate. The edges adhere completely to the skin.
No skin irritation: The skin around the stoma remains intact, dry and non-irritated. Redness, burning or itching, on the other hand, indicate a possible leak or incorrect fit.
Correct opening size: The cut-out in the baseplate fits exactly to the stoma – with a gap of approx. 1-2 mm without touching the stoma.
Longer wearing comfort: The pouch stays securely in place for several hours to days (depending on the system) without loosening or feeling uncomfortable.
No creasing or tension: The appliance fits smoothly and adapts well to the body shape, even when moving, bending or sitting.
Odorless: No unpleasant odor escapes – a sign of a tight supply.
Individually customized system: The pouch type and skin protection correspond to personal needs (e.g. ostomy shape, skin type, activity level)

What are common mistakes when changing supplies and how can they be avoided?

Some common mistakes when changing supplies and measures to avoid them are:

Skin not properly prepared: Residues of the old skin protection plate or moist skin impair adhesion.

Solution: Cleanse skin thoroughly, dry gently and make sure it is completely dry.
Incorrect opening size of the baseplate: Openings that are too large or too small can cause skin irritation.

Solution: Regular inspection and correct cutting of the opening.
Change in the event of heavy stoma activity: Makes it more difficult to fit the appliance securely.

Solution: If possible, change at times when the stoma is less active (e.g. in the morning before breakfast).
Touching the adhesive surface with your fingers: This can impair adhesion.

Solution: Avoid touching the adhesive surface if possible.
Ignoring skin irritations: First signs are ignored, which can lead to more severe symptoms.

Solution: Check the skin regularly and use care products or consult a specialist if you notice any abnormalities.

What do I need to consider when changing supplies on the road or on vacation?

Careful preparation is particularly important when changing supplies on the road or on vacation. The following points should be observed:

Sufficient supplies:Take enough stoma materials (pouches, baseplates, cleaning wipes, etc.) with you – ideally for a few days more than the duration of your vacation.
Use hand luggage: When traveling by air, all important ostomy equipment should be carried in your hand luggage in order to be covered in the event of lost luggage.
Hygiene: Ensure clean conditions when changing, especially in public sanitary facilities. Disinfectant wipes and disposable pads can be helpful. If you are only traveling in Europe, it makes sense to get a Euro toilet key. This gives you the opportunity to use mobility-friendly toilets that are normally locked.
Travel certificate/stoma pass: A medical certificate (multilingual, if possible) can be helpful at airport checkpoints. You can request this document from almost any healthcare provider. Click here for our ostomy passport including travel certificate.
Storage: Protect the materials from extreme heat or cold, as this can impair the adhesive effect.
Emergency plan: Find out in advance about medical contacts at your destination in case of problems with appliances.

Conclusion

Regular and careful changing of the appliance is a key part of everyday life with a stoma. It not only contributes to hygienic safety and comfort, but also protects the skin and ensures that the appliance works reliably. With the right technique, suitable materials and, if necessary, supportive aids, the change can be easily integrated into everyday life – even with physical limitations.

Good preparation, regular skin checks and individual adaptation of the appliance to the shape of the body and lifestyle are crucial. If you react early to changes in the stoma or the surrounding skin and seek professional advice if you are unsure, you can avoid discomfort in the long term and significantly improve your quality of life.

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For more information about us or our products, please visit our website. There you will find, among other things, our detailed FAQ and other interesting blog articles all about the topic stoma. You can also contact us via our social media channels or send us an e-mail. We look forward to hearing from you!