When to change your pouching system

  • Urostomy: Change before drinking fluids in the morning for ease.
  • Colostomy: Best changed when the stoma is least active, often in the morning.
  • Ileostomy: Similar to colostomies, change when the stoma is quiet, typically before breakfast.

How to change your pouching system

  1. Prepare: Gather all necessary supplies, including a new pouching system, cleaning cloths, and adhesive remover if needed.
  2. Remove Old System: Gently peel back the flange or skin barrier. Use adhesive remover wipes to clean any residue.
  3. Clean the Area: Wash the skin around the stoma with warm water, avoiding direct contact with the stoma itself.
  4. Dry and Prepare the Skin: Pat the area dry with a lint-free cloth, then apply a ring or gasket if used.
  5. Apply the New System: Ensure a snug fit around the stoma without touching it directly.
  6. Final Adjustments: Attach the pouch if using a two-piece system and apply gentle pressure around the stoma to secure the flange.

Source: https://www.ostomycanada.ca/ostomy-care-basics/general-management/changing-your-pouching-system/

ask a nswoc: how often should i change my pouching system?

Ask a NSWOC

The short answer…it depends. Every person and every stoma is different. Some people change every day – others every 7-10 days. The average is probably every 3-4 days or twice a week. It takes trial and error to figure out what will work best for you. You want to leave your pouching system in place for as long as it will remain intact and protect your skin without risking leakage.

Some things to consider:

  • The purpose of the flange/barrier is to protect your skin from your ostomy drainage. Stoma output can be sitting on your skin even if there is no visible leakage.
  • Some people are more comfortable changing their pouching system more frequently.
  • Liquid output (e.g. ileostomy or urostomy) will break down the flange/barrier more quickly than thicker
    output.
  • Taking the time to apply your pouching system correctly will result in a longer wear time than a hurried application in the mall washroom. Planning your pouching system changes rather than waiting for leakage can result in better wear time.
  • Pouching systems are expensive so you don’t want to change unnecessarily.
  • If you are sweating more than usual (hot weather, exercise) you may need to change more often.

Take the time needed to figure out what works best for you, your stoma, and your skin. It is not a competition and longer wear time is not necessarily better.

If you have any questions or concerns regarding your pouching system, please book an appointment with one of our Nurses Specialized in Wound, Ostomy and Continence (NSWOC).

By Laureen Sommerey, RN, MSN, WOCC(C)

Read more ostomy-related content in our quarterly Ostomy Newsletter

Useful Resources

Personalized Support

Have more personalized questions or need additional support? Book a free appointment with our specialists or nurses to get personalized assistance and answers to all your ostomy-related questions!

Personalized Client Care

Speak to one of our experienced Client Care Coordinators for personalized ostomy supplies or services for your needs.

More info

Free NSWOC Consultations

We provide free NSWOC Consultations at six of our locations in British Columbia. Contact us to book an appointment.

More info

6 Retail Locations

We have 6 locations in BC, visit us in Vancouver, Langley, White Rock, Victoria, Kamloops or Vernon for convenient access to our products.

More info

*Always consult an NSWOC or your health care provider before undergoing any long-term changes.