On a daily basis, people with ileostomies must wear an external bag or pouch to collect waste from their intestines. While some social stigmas still exist about their use, they have been hugely improved, even in the last few years. Gone are the days when rubber cement and irritating adhesives held ill-fitting pouches in place.

Now, there are modern, streamlined, and comfortable pouches that are made of lightweight plastic that are dyed a natural color so as not to draw attention if accidentally exposed. They attach to the skin with an adhesive wafer that will not rub, separate or irritate. These wafers are usually made of pectin or a similar natural substance.

The wafers are typically cut to fit snugly at the base of your stoma, according to its size. There are standard cut wafers as well as custom-cut wafers for your choice. They fit snugly against your skin so as to prevent leaks of fluid, matter, or odor. You can purchase this system as a one-piece or two-piece unit, depending on the opinion of your primary care physician and your preference.

The two-piece systems attach with a plastic locking ring to prevent leaks, and both systems are extremely effective. The one advantage to a two-piece system is that the wafer stays in place so that you can switch pouch types according to your activities. For example, many people use a "mini-pouch" for swimming or similar activities. Browse our selection at SGV Medical Supplies and see which pouches work for you. Our website is www.sgvmedical.com, or you can give us a direct call at 818-787-0162.