Can a person with a stoma go swimming?

Having a stoma can seem daunting when it comes to swimming and other water activities. A stoma is an opening in the abdomen that has been surgically created to divert waste from the body, and replaces normal bowel function. Many people wonder if it is safe and even possible to swim with a stoma. The good news is that in most cases, swimming and other water activities are perfectly fine for people with stomas. With some precautions and preparation, a stoma should not limit someone from enjoying pools, lakes, oceans and more.

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Quick Answers

Here are quick answers to common questions about swimming with a stoma:

Yes, most people with stomas can swim, though some preparation and precautions should be taken.
Wearing a stoma guard or waterproof bandage will protect the stoma during swimming.
Choose a skin-friendly adhesive or barrier ring to create a good seal around the stoma.

Empty the pouch before getting in the water to prevent leaks.
A one-piece swimsuit or swim trunks can help conceal the pouch.
Rinsing off after swimming will keep the skin around the stoma healthy.

Saltwater and chlorinated water may increase the need for more frequent barrier changes.
Listen to your body and don’t overexert yourself when swimming after surgery.

Preparing to Swim With a Stoma

Swimming with a stoma requires some additional preparation compared to swimming before stoma surgery. Here are some tips for getting ready to enjoy the water:

Make sure you have healed from your surgery. Most doctors recommend waiting 4-6 weeks after surgery before swimming.
Always empty the pouch before swimming. This prevents leaks and ballooning of the pouch.
Protect the stoma by applying a stoma guard or waterproof bandage over it.

Use a skin-friendly ostomy adhesive or barrier ring to create a tight seal.
Consider wearing a one-piece swimsuit or swim trunks to conceal the pouch.
Pack spare supplies like ostomy bags, wipes, and adhesive remover in case a change is needed after swimming.

Taking these steps before heading to the pool or beach will allow you to swim with confidence and prevent potential issues.

Precautions While Swimming

In addition to preparation, there are also some precautions to take while enjoying the water:

Avoid diving into the water, as the impact could dislodge the pouch.

Be gentle removing a wet swimsuit to prevent irritating the skin.
Rinse off after leaving the pool or ocean to wash away any residue.
Reapply your ostomy products after swimming to maintain a good seal.

Stay hydrated and use sunscreen to protect your skin while swimming.
Check the pouch periodically to ensure it remains secure and hasn’t filled with water.

By taking these simple precautions, you can have fun swimming without worries.

Choosing a Swimsuit

Selecting the right swimsuit is an important part of comfortably swimming with an ostomy. Here are swimsuit options to consider:

One-piece suit: A one-piece provides coverage and support. Look for stylish options with fun cutouts or backs.
Swim trunks: For men, swim trunks in athletic cuts or with a drawstring can conceal the pouch well.

Swim skirts: Pairing a solid-color tankini top with a coordinating swim skirt can be flattering.
Swim leggings: Leggings worn under a swimsuit top offer tummy coverage and control.
Rash guard: For water sports, a swim shirt provides sun protection and hides the pouch.

You can also find specialty swimsuits designed for ostomates, with built-in pouches or pockets to hold supplies. The most important thing is choosing a swimsuit that makes you feel comfortable and confident.

Types of Activities

Here are some of the swimming and water activities that can be enjoyed with an ostomy:

Recreational swimming: Swimming laps at the pool or splashing around for fun is totally OK.

Beaches and lakes: Enjoy the ocean, relax by the lake, or play in the waves.
Water parks: Slides and lazy rivers at water parks are usually ostomy-friendly.
Surfing: Ride the waves but be cautious about the impact from wipeouts.

Kayaking and canoeing: The seated nature makes paddling sports ideal.
Snorkeling and diving: Get a beautiful underwater view, just clear it with your doctor first.

Listen to any advice from your doctor, but most water activities are possible with a little preparation. Avoid scuba diving unless specially cleared by your medical team due to pressure changes.

Preventing Leaks

One major concern about swimming with an ostomy is preventing leaks. Here are some tips to avoid leaks and accidents:

Always empty the pouch before swimming.
Use high-quality ostomy products and adhesive.

Protect the opening of the stoma with a guard or waterproof tape.
Consider wearing a stoma support belt for extra security.
Pack extra ostomy supplies to quickly deal with any leaks.

Change your pouch and barrier more frequently when swimming to avoid breakdown.
Rinse off and reapply your adhesive after getting out of the water.

By following these precautions, leaks should not limit your ability to swim and have fun.

Ostomy and Water Safety

While swimming with an ostomy is very possible, it’s still important to put safety first. Keep these tips in mind:

Don’t swim alone, and be prudent about where and when you swim.
Start with short swims close to restroom facilities as you rebuild strength and stamina.

Swim at a relaxed pace; don’t overexert yourself after surgery.
Stay well-hydrated and use sunscreen when swimming.
Listen to your body. Get out of the water if you feel pain or discomfort.

As long as you take it slow and be smart, an ostomy does not have to limit swimming and water fun.

Benefits of Swimming With an Ostomy

Beyond just having fun, swimming can provide many benefits for people living with an ostomy:

Cardiovascular exercise: Swimming provides an excellent low-impact workout for your heart and lungs.

Strength and flexibility: The resistance of water makes it great for building strength and improving range of motion.
Weight management: Swimming laps is an efficient calorie-burning exercise.
Pain and stiffness relief: The buoyancy of water reduces joint pain and relieves postoperative stiffness.

Recovery aid: Gentle swimming helps strengthen muscles and regain stamina after surgery.

So for both physical and mental health, it’s worth overcoming any ostomy worries to enjoy swimming.

Special Considerations

There are a few additional things to keep in mind when swimming with specific types of ostomies:

Colostomy

Irrigation can help empty the colon prior to swimming.
Monitor your diet to avoid gas or diarrhea accidents.
Bring ostomy deodorant to use after exiting the water.

Ileostomy

Avoid swimming for 1 hour after eating to prevent an output accident.
Bring supplies to manage high stoma output.
Control diarrhea with diet adjustments before swimming.

Urostomy

Ask your doctor if you need a waterproof urostomy pouch.
Drink fluids regularly when swimming to stay hydrated.
Rinse your stoma with fresh water after swimming in a lake or ocean.

Just tailor your preparation to your unique ostomy and needs.

Swimming After Ostomy Surgery

If recovering from recent ostomy surgery, check with your doctor before swimming. Most experts recommend waiting 4-6 weeks to allow the incision to fully heal. When first venturing back in the water:

Stick to short, gentle swims rather than long vigorous workouts.

Use kicks rather than strokes at first to limit abdominal motion.
Listen to any pain; stop if discomfort arises.
Avoid diving, slides, or rough play that could jar the abdomen.

Consider wearing a supportive swimsuit or stoma support belt.

Ease back into swimming gradually. With patience, you’ll regain strength and stamina.

Swimming Tips From Fellow Ostomates

Fellow ostomates who love swimming offer these tips from experience:

“I put waterproof tape over my stoma opening for extra protection.”
“My one-piece swimsuit with a high waist and built-in shorts helps conceal everything.”
“I make sure to eat a light meal 2-3 hours before swimming to prevent accidents.”

“I pack a waterproof wet/dry bag with spare ostomy supplies in case I need to change after swimming.”
“Rinsing my stoma in fresh water after ocean swimming keeps my skin healthy.”

Learning from those who’ve been there makes swimming with an ostomy less intimidating.

Conclusion

Swimming is not only possible after ostomy surgery, but encouraged for its many benefits. With proper preparation and precautions, having a stoma should not limit enjoying pools, beaches, lakes and more. Be patient, listen to your body, and work closely with your doctor. By taking it slow and being smart, an ostomy does not mean giving up a fun, active lifestyle. With courage and creativity, you can adapt and continue activities like swimming that bring you joy.