FAQ

Yes, modern ostomy pouches are odor-proof. Most pouches are equipped with an activated carbon filter that allows gases to escape and minimizes odours. The odor and effectiveness of the filter depends on how long the pouch is worn and the diet.

If you notice excessively unpleasant odors, first check that the pouch is properly fitted and tight. Leaks are a common cause of odors. Clean the skin area thoroughly and change the supply system if necessary. In addition, there are foods such as cranberry and orange juice, parsley or yogurt that can help to reduce the odor.

Yes, this can occur, especially for people who sweat a lot. We recommend regularly checking the skin underneath the pouch and removing any moisture that forms, especially at the beginning of the wearing period, to avoid skin reactions.

Convexity refers to the curvature of the skin barrier—similar to a dome. It applies targeted pressure to the area around the stoma, helping it protrude further into the pouch.

Flat skin protection: Used when the stoma is flush with the skin or protrudes slightly. In most cases, a flat skin barrier is suitable for uncomplicated situations and relatively flat abdominal contours.

Convex skin protection: This type has a curved shape that gently pushes the stoma outward. A convex skin barrier is used for retracted or flush stomas, or in cases of uneven abdominal contours such as folds, bulges, or scars, to ensure a better seal and fit of the pouch.

Open the ileostomy outlet and gently clean it with a cloth from the inside and, if necessary, also from the outside. Make sure to remove all residue thoroughly. If needed, carefully dry the area afterwards and then close the outlet securely.

Stoma pouches should be stored dry, clean and at room temperature (ideally between 15 and 25 °C). Direct sunlight, heat sources and moisture – for example in the bathroom – should be avoided as they can impair the adhesive properties and material quality. Also pay attention to the expiration date of your ostomy supply.

Adhesion to the skin is ensured by the skin protection material. In some situations, fixing strips can also be used. An ostomy belt can be used for additional security. It is attached to the ostomy supply using eyelets on the side and tightened around the abdomen.

• Check fit: Cut opening to fit stoma, even out unevenness with paste/rings
• Optimise adhesion: Apply skin protection plate smoothly, stabilise with belt or fixing strips if necessary
• Check and change the dressing regularly.
• Care for the skin: Clean gently, do not use oily creams. If necessary, there are special oil-free lotions that are particularly suitable for caring for peristomal skin. ( STOMOCUR® Safety Skin care lotion)

Important: Please always consult a doctor if you experience frequent leakage or sore skin.

The application of an ostomy supply can be influenced by various factors. Here are the most common reasons that can make fitting more difficult:

1. Difficult physical conditions such as skin folds, scars, retracted stoma, etc.

2. Moisture impairs the adhesive strength of the supply and can lead to leaks and skin irritation

• Excessive sweating
• Weeping, sore skin
• Use of unsuitable care products (oil-based or moisturising products)
  
  

3. Technical problems with the supply

• Incorrect size and shape of the skin protection plate
• Unsuitable supply system
• Poor adhesion

Skin protection includes all preventive and care measures aimed at protecting the peristomal skin (skin around the stoma) from irritation, inflammation, infection or damage and maintaining its natural protective function.

The skin protection material is the material that protects the skin surrounding the stoma against aggressive excretion.

The STOMOCUR® range offers a variety of skin protection materials – from hydrocolloid products to variants with alginate and gelatine-free solutions. This means there is a suitable product for every individual requirement.

A colostomy is an artificial bowel outlet in which a section of the large intestine (colon) is passed through the abdominal wall to the outside. Stool is passed through the stoma into a stoma pouch. The stool is usually mushy, as the digestive process in the colon is largely complete.

An ileostomy is an artificial bowel where part of the small intestine (ileum) is passed through the abdominal wall to the outside. The stoma is created there, through which the predominantly liquid (as there is no passage through the large intestine) excretions leave the body and are passed into a pouch.

A urostomy refers to an artificial urinary diversion through the abdominal wall. An incontinent urostomy requires a pouch positioned over the stoma into which urine can drain in an uncontrolled and permanent manner.

Ostomy supplies include all aids and measures required to care for an ostomy hygienically, safely and gently. This primarily includes the stoma pouch (one- or two-piece system), skin protection plates and accessories such as skin protection rings or fixing strips. Modern ostomy supplies are water-repellent and odor-proof.

Hydrocolloid is a skin protection material that is mainly composed of natural ingredients such as cellulose, gelatine and pectin. Hydrocolloid tends to form a gel when combined with fluids that are released through the skin, for example. This gel provides the necessary adhesive strength for a stoma appliance.

In a one-piece system, the skin barrier and stoma pouch are connected and form a single unit. This means that the entire system must be removed during a pouch change.

In a two-piece system, the baseplate and stoma pouch are separate and can be securely attached using a “click system,” similar to a lunchbox. The pouch can be changed multiple times without having to remove the baseplate.

The type of stoma pouch depends on the type of stoma and the excretions.

A closed pouch is usually used for a colostomy, i.e. there is no opening through which it can be emptied. It is ideal for solid stools and is changed completely after use.

For an ileostomy, a pouch with an outlet is suitable. This can be emptied and reused several times a day – good for mushy or liquid stools.

For a urostomy, a special urine pouch with a non-return valve (prevents urine from flowing back over the stoma) and outlet (rotary valve or soft outlet) is used. It is designed for continuous urine drainage and can be connected to a night bag.

Yes, with proper training and practice, independent stoma care is possible. Important factors include using the correct appliances (pouch and skin barrier), maintaining good hygiene, changing the pouch regularly, and monitoring the skin around the stoma.

If you are unsure or experience any problems, you should always contact a stoma care nurse or a doctor.

With a stoma, you cannot consciously control excretion as the stoma does not have a sphincter muscle. The activity and also the timing of excretions are therefore random, so that stool or urine can escape from the stoma in an uncontrolled manner. The stoma usually shows increased activity after eating.

With a permanent colostomy, in some cases a so-called irrigation is possible, whereby the bowel can be emptied and excretion can be controlled. It is best to discuss whether this method is suitable for you with your doctor or stoma nurse.

Yes, even with a stoma, air can escape from the bowel – this manifests itself in the form of noises or swelling of the pouch. This is completely normal. The amount and frequency depend on the diet and individual digestion. If air formation is disturbing, it can help to reduce flatulent foods (e.g. alcoholic drinks, beans, cabbage, onions and dairy products) and eat slowly.

Most ostomy pouches today are equipped with a filter that allows gases to escape in a controlled manner, prevents swelling and at the same time neutralizes unpleasant odours.

With a stoma, you can generally shower or bathe without any restrictions, unless otherwise instructed. You can choose whether to wear the pouch or remove it. The stoma itself is not sensitive to water.

Colostomies are largely predictable, which makes it easier to choose the best time to shower or bathe without the pouch. Early morning before meals or later in the evening is ideal, as your stoma is usually calmer and less active during these times.

Ileostomies and urostomies, however, continuously produce output. Please be prepared that this may occur even while showering or bathing.

Note on showering with a colostomy or ileostomy pouch
When showering, you can cover the integrated filter with the included filter sticker to protect it from moisture. Please remember to remove the sticker after showering. The appropriate filter stickers are included in every package.

Yes, especially in the early stages, your diet should be easy to digest and well tolerated. Drink plenty of fluids and try out new foods gradually. A food diary can help you to document your diet. Every body reacts differently – important is what is good for you individually. If you have any questions, your doctor or nutritionist will be able to help you.

Typical signs of a urinary tract infection with a urostomy are cloudy or unpleasant smelling urine, pain in the lower abdomen or back, burning, fever or a general feeling of illness. A change in the amount or color of urine can also be an indication. If you notice such symptoms, please seek medical advice as soon as possible.

Most stoma pouches on the market have a so-called “window” for better observation of the stoma and excretions.

We recommend an annual check.

The stoma should be cleaned gently but thoroughly. Use lukewarm water and a soft, lint-free tissue or compress. Soap is not necessary – if you would use soap, it should be pH-neutral, without alcohol, perfume or oil, as this can impair the adhesion of the skin protection. Do not rub, but dab the skin carefully and make sure that everything is thoroughly dry before applying a new treatment.

If you are out and no water is available, you can clean your stoma and the surrounding skin with fragrance-free wet wipes.

If you have diarrhea, it helps to eat filling foods such as bananas, rice, carrots or rusks and to drink enough, but not too quickly. Avoid fatty, very sweet or spicy foods. Electrolytes are particularly important for ileostomy patients to prevent dehydration. If you have persistent diarrhea, please talk to your doctor to clarify the causes and avoid complications.

If you are constipated, you should drink enough fluids, exercise regularly and eat a high-fiber diet, for example whole grain products, fruit and vegetables. Heat (e.g. a hot water bottle) or a gentle abdominal massage can also help. If the constipation persists or you experience pain, please contact your doctor.

Yes, there are various ways to get in touch with other people with a stoma. Many clinics, medical supply stores or ostomy nurses arrange contact with self-help groups or offer meet-ups. There are also online forums, social media and platforms where those affected can exchange ideas, share experiences and support each other. This exchange can be very helpful and encouraging, especially at the beginning.

If your skin around the stoma is irritated or inflamed, you should react quickly. This way you can alleviate discomfort and prevent the skin condition from worsening.

1. Find the cause: Find out why you have irritated skin (e.g. leaky supply, allergic reaction, etc.)

2. Gently cleanse the skin: Verwenden Sie lauwarmes Wasser, um ihr Stoma und die Haut darum vorsichtig zu reinigen. Verwenden Sie keine Pflegeprodukte wie Seifen, Desinfektionsmittel mit Alkohol oder Öl. Tupfen Sie die Haut mit einer fusselfreien Kompresse sanft trocken.Use lukewarm water to carefully clean your stoma and the skin around it. Do not use any cleaning products such as soaps, disinfectants with alcohol or oil. Gently pat the skin dry with a lint-free compress.

3. Protect and care for your skin:Use suitable skin protection products such as a skin protection spray or lotion as well as skin protection rings, pastes or powders.

4. Adjust supply: If the skin is irritated or inflamed, it is advisable to check the care and adjust it if necessary. Skin protection that is not optimally fitted can lead to difficulties of this kind. Your stoma nurse can help you here.

5. Go to the doctor if necessary:If the skin situation worsens, if you experience unbearable pain or if you are generally unsure about this, it makes sense to see a doctor.

A stoma has no nerve endings and is therefore insensitive to pain. An injury caused by cleaning or shaving is therefore not consciously perceived. If your stoma bleeds, this can sometimes be harmless, but it can also be a warning signal – it depends on the type, amount and cause of the bleeding.

Light bleeding – often harmless. A little blood can be normal, e.g. if:

• you have slightly injured the stoma while cleaning or changing the pouch (e.g. by rubbing or scratching)
• the mucous membrane has been mechanically irritated (it is very well supplied with blood and sensitive)
  
  

In such cases, the bleeding is usually slight, bright red and short-lived.

Pay attention to these signs:

• Heavy bleeding
• Dark red or permanent bleeding
• Blood in the stool or in the ostomy appliance
• Additional symptoms such as pain, fever, weakness or dizziness

A stoma is a round to oval, moist, reddish opening in the abdominal wall. It is similar in color to the oral mucosa and has no pain sensation. The appearance, position and size can vary depending on the type of stoma (colostomy, ileostomy or urostomy). At the beginning, the stoma is swollen and shrinks over the following weeks as soon as the swelling subsides.

“Pancaking” refers to a problem with ostomy supply - especially for colostomy wearers – where the stool does not sink into the pouch, but collects flat around the stoma on or under the skin protection plate. This can lead to the pouch “sticking together”, which can result in leaks, skin irritation and unpleasant odors. This can be remedied by using special filter covers, a little air in the pouch, lubricant or a drop of oil inside the pouch so that the stool slides off better. It can also help to increase your fluid intake.

Irrigation is a special irrigation technique for people with a colostomy in which lukewarm water is passed into the colon to achieve controlled bowel movements. It makes it possible to control the timing of bowel movements. This means that a stoma cap can be worn instead of a pouch, which offers more freedom in everyday life. However, the method can only be used with colostomies and should only be done under medical instruction and training.

When sleeping, make sure the pouch fits well and is empty to prevent leaks. Most people empty the pouch before going to bed or use a slightly larger pouch at night. For a urostomy, a night drainage pouch can be connected so you don’t have to empty it during the night. Choose a comfortable sleeping position and, if needed, use a towel or protective pad to protect your bedding.

Light exercise is often possible just a few days after the operation and is even beneficial for recovery. However, you should wait until the wound has healed well before exercising – usually around 6 to 8 weeks.

Start slowly and avoid heavy lifting or intense abdominal muscle strain. Many ostomates return to normal sport – sometimes with a special ostomy belt or additional protection. Avoid martial arts or gymnastics, as these could inevitably put pressure on your stoma appliance. Talk to your doctor or stoma care nurse before you start exercising to find the right activities for you.

The moment when you can return to work or travel after a stoma operation depends on several factors – above all on your individual recovery.

When can I return to work?
On average 10 -12 after the operation. But this depends on several factors:

• your general condition of health
• possible complications (e.g. wound healing, hernias)
• your work activity
  
  

o Office job: Usually possible to return earlier (after approx. 4-6 weeks)

o Physically strenuous work: later (often after 8-12 weeks) – possibly with support (e.g. support belt)

Important: A doctor's approval is crucial.

When can I travel again?
Basically possible after approx. 6-8 weeks after the operation, if:

• wound healing is complete
• you are confident in dealing with the stoma
• there are no acute complaints
• you can cope well with care, nutrition and, if necessary, medication
  
  
  

Consult your doctor or your ostomy nurse before you want to go back to work or travel. Together you can assess what is realistic and safe.

The frequency of changing depends on several factors – including the type of stoma (ileostomy, colostomy or urostomy), the supply system used (one-piece or two-piece) and your individual needs and lifestyle. The guideline on stoma therapy from the Specialist Society for Stoma, Continence and Wounds recommends the following change intervals (from 2011):

One-piece supply systems

• Urostomy: At least 1 x daily
• Colostomy: 1-3 x daily (if changed too frequently, skin problems may occur due to mechanical irritation)
• Ileostomy: At least 1 x daily
  
  

Two-piece supply systems

• Baseplates

  o Urostomy and ileostomy: every 2-3 days

  o Colostomy: every 2-4 days

• Pouches

  o Urostomy and ileostomy: At least 1 x daily

  o Colostomy: 1-3 x daily (if necessary)

After the creation of a stoma, if the rectum is still present, discharge may occasionally occur. This is because the remaining section of bowel – especially the rectum – continues to produce mucus. This mucus can collect and occasionally be excreted, similar to normal bowel movements. And this can cause a feeling of pressure or pain. It can be helpful to sit on the toilet to give in to the natural urge and possibly expel mucus or residual stool from the remaining section of bowel. Initially, wearing pads to protect your clothing can provide security.

If the rectum has been removed, pain or discharge may still occur in the anus area. Possible causes are wound healing processes, scar tissue, irritation or – in some cases – small abscesses or fistulas in the area of the closed anal opening. These symptoms are not unusual, but should be checked out by a doctor, especially if they persist or increase. Your doctor will be able to assess if follow-up treatment is necessary.

Yes, our STOMCOUR® range also includes black stoma pouches. Both the cover and the pouch foil, as well as the closure elements, are entirely black.

Discover Primo® products

No, we only deliver our free samples within Germany. For delivery outside Germany, please contact the relevant regional distributor.

No, all STOMOCUR® ostomy products are latex-free. We attach great importance to skin-friendly materials and deliberately avoid the use of latex.

Definition: You can order free ostomy product samples from us and try them to find the one that suits you best.

You can order up to three free product samples from us — shipping included — and receive them at your home within a few days. It’s quick and easy to do online via our website at https://forlife.info/en/ordering-samples in just three steps.

Step 1: Select product(s)Produkt(e) auswählen.
Step 2: Add to shopping basket.
Step 3: Enter your delivery address and complete your order.

We are always delighted to receive feedback on our products.

Almost all ostomy pouches in our STOMOCUR® range are available in a cut-to-size version. These can be individually adapted to the shape and size of your stoma.

If you experience any issues with one of our products, it is particularly important to first report the defective products directly to your supplier. Be sure to include the product’s article number (REF), the LOT number on the packaging (located on the left side of the production label), and the quantity of affected items. You may also include a photo of the defective products (optional).

Once we receive your complaint, we will carefully review your case. Depending on the issue, either a refund or a replacement shipment will be issued. In any case, you will receive feedback from us.

The STOMOCUR® Drainage Protect Bed Bag (DPB2000) is compatible with the following products:

• STOMOCUR® Drainage Protect
• STOMOCUR® Drainage Protect konvex
• STOMOCUR® Drainage Protect medium konvex
• STOMOCUR® Drainage Protect Clic
• STOMOCUR® Drainage Extra "Access Port"

Our internal sales team is available as your first point of contact to help you quickly find the right person to speak to. You can easily reach us by email ([email protected]) or telephone (0800 78 666 287). Depending on your enquiry, we will then put you in touch with the appropriate personal contact person, who will provide you with individual support and answer your questions competently.

If you have any questions or encounter difficulties with your products, please contact your personal product supplier directly. They are familiar with your care and are always available to provide competent advice and support.