Caring For Your Stoma
The skin surrounding the stoma, called the peristomal skin, must be protected from direct contact with discharge. This discharge is potentially irritating, since it is very high in digestive enzymes.
The peristomal skin should be gently cleansed with plain soap that leaves no residue, then rinsed with water during each change of the ostomy pouching system. Water will not enter a stoma because of its gentle outward contractions, so it's not necessary to cover the stoma while bathing or showering.
It is a good idea to cover your stoma. It helps to keep dust and pollen out, not to mention small flying insects. If you cover your stoma, you will have a cleaner stoma with less crusting and probably fewer infections.
Why Do I Need to Care for My Ostomy?
- You eliminate body waste through the end of the exposed intestine (stoma). Elimination of body waste must be done to ensure health.
- Without proper care, skin irritation is possible, making it difficult to maintain a good seal between the skin and the barrier.
- You want to continue to live a full life. Understanding how to care for your ostomy will help you live comfortably with it.
