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.
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.
I use Spanx (buyer beware, they are tight and may inhibit ostomy output if the output is thick, though I have never had a problem) for weight training, obstacle races and on a daily basis. Ask your doctor or surgeon before engaging in any sort of weight baring exercises after surgery.
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.
The Spanx can be used here, as well as the Stealth Belt, Compression Shirts/Shorts, Spandex bike shorts or a belly band. I’ve used these products while running, biking, swimming, etc.
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, barrier extenders or Sure Seal (which is one of my personal favorites).
I’ve used these options for kayaking, boogie boarding, snorkeling and swimming laps in the pool.
More Information
If you’re interested in more information on exercising with an ostomy, we have an article and a video that go into more detail.
For more information, see related ostomy product and exercise articles and other ostomy resources here:
- Tips for Swimming with an Ostomy – More Security | Ask Laura
- Ostomy Products | Options
- How to Exercise with an Ostomy
- Stomas and Seat Belts | Ask Laura
- Swimming with an Ostomy
Shield HealthCare | Stronger with Shield
Dear Laura, I wear a two piece ostomy bag. I need help with concealing an ostomy bag. When I move around my shirt hikes up and the tip of the bag peeks out from under my shirt.
