There are three types of stoma bags, ileostomy bags (also known as drainable), urostomy bags and colostomy bags (also known as closed). The type of stoma you have will determine which stoma bag you will need.
Each stoma bag is designed to direct output (either pee or poo) into your stoma bag easily, comfortably and securely.
There is no set ‘best stoma bag’ as this will vary from person to person. What works for one person may not work for another. It’s important to test out different stoma bags to find out what works best for your individual needs and lifestyle.
When it comes to choosing a stoma bag, it’s important to explore the different features available so you can find a comfortable, secure fit that you are confident with.
Modern stoma bags are generally made from a variety of skin-friendly materials, some even have additives to help keep your skin protected and healthy. At CliniMed, the flange on our Aura Plus stoma bags is made from hydrocolloid which is infused with Manuka honey. Soft, flexible materials will help your bag move with your body, lowering the risk of rubbing and skin damage. If you have sensitive peristomal (skin around the stoma) skin or have an active lifestyle, this may be a feature you prioritise when choosing a stoma bag.
Stoma bags are available in different sizes to suit how much capacity you would like your bag to hold. If you have a high-output stoma, or generally prefer to change your pouch less, you’re likely to opt for a bigger sized pouch. You may also want to consider how discreet you would like your pouch to be. A larger pouch is more likely to be seen than a smaller pouch.
The most common colours for stoma bags are beige and black and there is no right option here. People with lighter skin may prefer beige as it is closer to the tone of their skin and those with darker skin may prefer the black option. The clothes you are wearing also play a part in what colour bag you opt for. If you are are usually wearing darker colours, a black pouch is more likely to blend in and be less visible versus a lighter pouch.
If you have creases or dips around your stoma or a stoma that is flush, recessed or retracted, you might find it beneficial to have a convex pouch. Convex pouches help to provide a more secure fit and reduce the risk of leaks. At CliniMed, we offer soft convex pouches that gently press on the skin to help push the stoma out and into the pouch.
Request a free sample so you can test and compare to find what works for you.
To make sure your pouch is comfortable and fits securely, we recommend:
Measuring your stoma regularly
Testing out different stoma pouches – you can use our free sampling service to do this!
Speaking to your Stoma Care Nurse if you are struggling to find products that work for you
Exploring stoma accessories to give you better security – flange extenders and mouldable seals are popular options
If you find you’re having issues with your stoma bag the first person you should talk to is your Stoma Care Nurse. They can help you find the source of the issue.
The first thing to check is whether the hole in your bag fits snugly round your stoma. You can re-measure using the backing paper of the adhesive as a guide. Or you can call us on 0808 1596017 and we’ll send you a measuring guide.
If you have a retracted or flat stoma then you might consider trying a stoma bag with a convex flange. The shape of the flange provides gentle pressure that helps the stoma stick out more. This makes leakage less likely.
Stoma bags with soft convex flanges mould to your body’s shape which helps to create a seal between the adhesive and skin giving you a secure fit. Products like Hyperseal washers and HydroFrame flange extenders can also be used to provide extra security.
A stoma bag shouldn’t be a barrier to exercise. Even swimming is possible with a stoma bag. The flange on our Soft Convex Aura Plus stoma bags moulds to your shape keeping the bag securely in place while you’re active. You can also use Hyperseal washers and HydroFrame or UltraFrame flange extenders for extra security.
There is no single “best” stoma bag – the right choice is the one that works for you and your individual needs
There are lots of different features on stoma bags: convexity, size, colour, materials and more
Sampling different stoma bags and accessories can help you find the best fit
Find lots of helpful tips for living with a stoma in our resource library.
Whether emergency or planned find information on what to expect from stoma surgery.
Find information on what a stoma bag is, how they work and what the different types are used for.
Discover products for stoma care including bags and accessories.
From diet to relationships find information and advice about living to the fullest with a stoma.
