There are approximately 725,000 to 1 million people in the U.S. living with an ostomy, according to the United Ostomy Association of America. People of all ages have life-saving ostomy surgery for a wide variety of reasons.
Having an ostomy can require certain lifestyle adjustments. However, most people go on to live active and healthy lives after having ostomy surgery. They can resume the activities they once enjoyed. This includes swimming and using a hot tub with confidence.
What Is an Ostomy?
An ostomy is a surgical procedure that creates an opening in the body for the discharge of bodily waste.
The term ostomy describes the procedure itself and the opening that is created during the procedure.
What Is an Ostomy Bag?
An ostomy bag is a pouch that attaches to a surgical opening on the abdominal wall. This opening is called a stoma. A stoma connects your intestine to the outside of your body.
During an ostomy procedure, the surgeon attaches the end of the small or large intestine to the outside of the body. The point where the intestine comes out of the abdominal wall is called the stoma.
Waste can leave the body through this opening and flow into an ostomy bag for disposal.
When Do You Need an Ostomy?
A person needs an ostomy when their digestive or urinary system is unable to remove waste from the body.
Often people need to use an ostomy bag as the result of health conditions including:
- Birth defects.
- Cancer.
- Crohn’s disease.
- Diverticulitis.
- Irritable bowel syndrome.
An ostomy may be used for many other medical conditions. They are permanent or temporary depending on the health condition.
What Should You Do Before Swimming With an Ostomy?
Before swimming with an ostomy, it is a good idea to get assurance from your care team — Especially if you have just recently started using an ostomy.
Here are some additional tips for swimming with an ostomy:
- Check the seal: Double-check the seal between the ostomy bag and stoma. Most ostomy bags are water resistant. When attached to the stoma correctly, they are leak-proof and airtight. Water should not harm or get into the bag or stoma.
- Cover filters: Place a filter sticker over the deodorizing filter on your ostomy bag while swimming. Remove the sticker once you are out of the water.
- Delay eating: Eat at least 4 hours before you get into the water if you are concerned about output while you’re swimming.
- Empty the bag: Empty your ostomy bag often to help it maintain a low profile. Aim to empty the bag when it is about one-third full. The more frequently you empty your pouch, the flatter and less noticeable it will be.
While swimming shouldn’t require special equipment, high-intensity water sports might. Consider using a stoma guard to protect your stoma if you plan to go boogie boarding, surfing, scuba diving, or enjoy other active water sports.
A stoma guard is a firm protective covering that you wear over your stoma to add an extra layer of protection.
What Is a Skin Barrier (Flange)?
A skin barrier, or flange, is a replaceable faceplate that adheres to the skin around your stoma. It has two functions. First, it protects your skin from output. Second, it holds the pouch in place.
Skin barriers are usually waterproof. You can add waterproof strips or a plastic cover while you swim if your skin barrier is not waterproof. You can add waterproof strips for additional peace of mind if your barrier is waterproof.
Apply the waterproof strips or cover at least an hour before you swim so they adhere properly.
What Type of Swimsuit Should You Wear With an Ostomy?
You can wear whatever type of swimsuit you want with an ostomy. Wearing a swimsuit with a ostomy bag should be no different than wearing a swimsuit without one.
One-piece bathing suits are a good option for women. They hold the bag in place securely. A two-piece bathing suit can work as well.
Some women prefer high-waisted bottoms. Others prefer a suit that has a longer tankini-style top. This helps to hold the bag securely and covers it if that is a concern.
High-waisted swim trunks and shorts with pouches designed for colostomy bags are also available. Rash guards are a good option, too. They help secure the bag to the body and obscure it.
The right swimsuit for you is whatever makes you feel comfortable. Your choice of swimwear is appropriate if the ostomy bag is secure and does not move easily while you are swimming,
What Should You Do After Swimming With an Ostomy?
After you have gone swimming with an ostomy, check your skin barrier to make sure you have a good seal. Chlorine and saltwater may cause the seal to wear out faster.
Hot tubs have a higher chlorine level than most pools. They might cause your flange to break down quicker. You might need to change your pouch system more frequently if you use a hot tub regularly.
Remove the cover or special waterproof strips you have used when you are done swimming or using a hot tub.
About Digestive Disorders
UPMC Digestive Health Care cares for a wide range of gastrointestinal (GI) conditions and diseases, from diagnosis to treatment. Whether your digestive condition is common or complicated, our experts can help. Upon referral from your physician, we coordinate your testing and treatment. If you have a complicated condition, we can refer you to one of UPMC’s digestive health centers of excellence. Find a GI doctor near you.
Editor's Note: This article was originally published on , and was last reviewed on .
Sources
United Ostomy Association of America. Swimming Pool Discrimination: The Facts and Your Rights. LINK