As a matter of full disclosure, I do not enjoy the water…never having learned to swim; and although learning was on my bucket list a few times, I never felt comfortable with my head in the pool. But I am aware that many live for this time of year when cooling down or just splashing around is good for the soul, and being an Ostomate does not prevent us from doing what we want!
Like so many ostomy-related issues, there is an entire industry devoted to assisting swimmers on participating without “pouch concern.” While looking in my stash of samples to help a new Ostomate, I came across an item that I would love to pass it along to you. They are by SAFE AND SIMPLE, which makes very skin-friendly products, and are called ½ ARC SKIN BARRIER STRIPS. They provide a water-resistant seal and will provide the Ostomate with the confidence that he or she can swim without concern about losing adhesive protection. I also showed the new Ostomate Brava Elastic Barrier Strips by Coloplast, which are designed in multiple shapes to fit many contours of stomas. There are many more products that can be found advertised in THE PHOENIX Magazine (“The” magazine for all things ostomy!) so that confidence and security is attainable.
Additionally, there are swimsuits that are designed for the special needs of an Ostomate. I can absolutely recommend Ostomy Secrets by Convatec for their unique design. The men’s line includes trunks in different colors; the women’s line includes full suits or just bottoms that can be worn with tops from other suits. I love my black and white polka dot bottom that I pair with a bright lipstick red tankini to sit by the pool. No, I don’t swim, but a girl has to look the part! Give me a big hat, yes, a colorful mask, and I am summer-ready!
The full collection, like their underwear and intimate wear, have an internal pocket for the pouch on both sides, since colostomies are usually on the left side, while ileostomies are usually on the right side. Urostomies can be either side.
My pitch for sunscreen, once again…please use it! The last thing any of us need is skin cancer, which poses so much danger to all, and Ostomates need no other complications. We need to be as healthy as possible to maintain our independence and live our lives to the fullest. Lastly, please do not dehydrate in the heat of the summer. Plenty of fluids and staying cool are key to feeling well. Drink, drink and drink, because by the time we are thirsty, we may find ourselves disoriented and nauseated. Particularly ileostomates are most susceptible because our stomas are always producing output. Learn more by reading other information provided on my blog site, or visit the UOAA (United Ostomy Associations of America) website. Enjoy the summer…it always flies by so quickly!