After an ostomy the next step is to start using a colostomy bag. If you have never heard about it before, it can be very confusing to think about a pouch that sticks to your body. That is why in this article we will introduce you to the parts of the colostomy pouch, as well as the variations there are of each element.
The colostomy bag
The bag collects waste from your body and is made with a waterproof material that prevents contact between the contents and the outside. They are usually made with materials that do not make noise when you move, which provides an important element of discretion.
The bags can be of two types:
- One-piece: It is the bag that has the skin barrier integrated in such a way that they cannot be separated.
- Two-piece: In this case, the skin barrier is separated from the pouch. Then the barrier is attached to the skin and subsequently the colostomy bag is attached to the skin barrier.
The advantages of two-piece colostomy bags are several. They can remain on the skin longer, which avoids irritation caused by continual pouch changing. This also protects the skin from moisture and injury caused by daily changing. In addition, it is easier to place the pouch over the skin barrier than directly on the skin.
The skin barrier
The skin barrier is the disc that adheres to the skin to stop the pouch. It is also responsible for preventing leakage of stool or urine. This barrier can be integrated into the colostomy bag or be a part of what we call a two-piece bag.
The ring can be made of different materials, but in general they are synthetic resins that adhere to the skin without irritating it. This is important because 70% of complications come from poor adhesion and the leaks it generates.
The skin barrier of a colostomy bag can be of two types:
- Cuttable: Barriers of this type allow you to cut them to the size and shape needed for your stoma. They are recommended for people whose stoma varies in diameter or whose stomas are oval or irregular.
- Pre-cut: This type arrives pre-cut from the factory. They are circular in shape and have a specific size. They are indicated for people with a stoma whose diameter does not change.
There are skin barriers with a convex shape, also called "convex disc". Instead of being flat, they have an edge that, when adhering to the skin, squeezes the tissue and makes the stoma protrude a little more. This type of discs are recommended for people who have their stoma sunken or at the level of the skin.
Protective fabric
Most colostomy bags are covered with a soft, breathable material. This fabric allows the user not to feel the plastic rubbing against the skin. Thus, the pouch can be perceived as a part of the undergarment.
Exhaust gas valve
One-piece colostomy bags have an outlet at the top through which gases can escape. Since gas is also expelled through the stoma, this valve prevents the pouch from swelling.
Gas evacuation filter
To eliminate and neutralize odors, colostomy bags may have a filter incorporated into the gas outlet valve. The composition of this filter may vary, but almost all share activated charcoal as the main component.
Its mission is to absorb the bad odor of the gases that are expelled. There are one-piece bags that have the filter internally. In the case of two-piece bags, the filters are purchased separately and can be added to any type of colostomy bag.
The filter also fulfills an important psychological function, as it is an additional element that allows the user not to have to worry about his or her bag.
Now that you know the colostomy bag
Now that you know the parts that make up a colostomy bag, it will be easier for you to choose according to your situation. We remind you that you can find the colostomy bag and accessories that best suit your needs in our store.
