Exercising with an Ostomy | Products That Can Help

Ostomy Lifestyle Specialist | Shield HealthCare

07/06/16 9:17 PM PST

I was very active before my diagnosis of ulcerative colitis and my ostomy surgery. After surgery I was so worried about pushing myself too hard that I didn’t let myself do the things that I loved. After doing a little bit of research about products that would help keep me healthy while exercising with an ostomy, and getting a pep talk from my colorectal surgeon, I started backpacking, running, hiking, rock climbing, biking, weight training, swimming and boogie boarding!

There are different products that can help protect your stoma, prevent peristomal hernias and secure your pouch while swimming or doing activities that may cause the pouch to flap. Here, we discuss the product options used in different situations.

Protecting the Stoma

If the stoma is at risk of being rubbed up against or exposed to blunt force it’s a good idea to use a stoma guard. Some ideal sports to use a stoma guard for are: football, soccer, baseball, basketball, etc.

Exercising with an Ostomy — My favorite stoma guard is the Freedom Guard GTX by **Stomaplex**. I use it for boogie boarding, backpacking, ice skating and rock climbing.

Abdominal Support

If the abdominal muscles are being utilized, it’s a good idea to use a hernia belt or some sort of support-wear. Many people love the NuHope Hernia Support Belts. I like to use Spanx.

Securing the Ostomy

If the ostomy pouch will be a disturbance if it is flapping around, it is suggested you use a Stealth Belt or Spanx.

Getting the Pouch Wet

If the ostomy pouch will be getting wet, you have a few options. It’s not necessary to have any additional products, but you can use a stealth belt, pink tape, or barrier extenders (which is one of my personal favorites).