OK, I know, it's only been a few days warm and sunny but if it's a sign of what's to come this summer then let's get ahead of the curve by anticipating the challenges and feeling prepared.
As the temperature rises and thoughts turn to summer holidays and beach days, many people living with an ostomy may find themselves feeling a mix of excitement and apprehension. Whether it's concerns about body image, swimwear, leaks, or simply confidence in general, these are all valid concerns but which can all be addressed. Let's look at how you can embrace the season with comfort and confidence.
The Summer Challenge: Heat, Water & Visibility
Warm weather brings joy, but it also brings sweat, activity, and for some the desire to swim — all of which can be daunting when you have an ostomy. Common concerns include:
- Swimwear worries: How visible is the pouch? Will it stay secure?
- Body confidence: The thought of revealing your body can trigger anxiety.
- Skin irritation: Heat and humidity can affect the skin around your stoma.
- Leaks: Swimming or sweating might make you worry about pouch security.
- Travel: Flying and long journeys require extra planning with your supplies.
On the positives though, Summer's warmth and extended daylight can uplift moods and encourage social interactions, BBQ's etc. Why not see it as an opportunity to explore new clothing styles and regain confidence in your appearance. High-waisted garments, flowy dresses, breathable fabrics, summer shirts, cool shorts and stylish hats to complete the look. You could discover a new comfort and confidence in your frsh look.
Solutions That Make a Splash
Here’s how you can tackle summer with ease:
1. Choose the Right Swimwear
Opt for high-waisted bottoms or one-piece swimsuits that offer gentle compression and coverage. Some styles offer patterns or rouching to help disguise the bag visibility. You might also feel more confident if your bag can sit between fabric layers and this is an option in many ostomy designed swimwear.
Men might prefer swim trunks with built-in support or fitted styles that give added discretion without sacrificing freedom.
2. Layer for Confidence
Wearing a lightweight ostomy support band or waistband under your swimwear is another way to gain that extra bit of confidence in knowing your bag is fully covered and secure. Anything to potentially reduce bag movement, bulges or leaks is great right, just find what feels right for you.
3. Prep Your Skin
In warmer months, keeping the peristomal skin healthy is crucial. Consider using skin barrier wipes or sprays before applying stoma bag to enhance adhesion and protect the skin. Always ensure your flange is secure before swimming. Always carry extra supplies and skin prep products in your holiday bag — just in case.
4. Hydration
Maintain adequate fluid intake (non alcoholic of course!) in order to prevent dehydration, especially crucial for ileostomy patients. Remeber you may feel fine and think you've drank enough but warmer weather does mean you will be losing more fluid through sweat and dehydration can sneak up on you so be sure to drink more than you might otherwise do when it's not warm.
5. Plan Ahead for Holidays
Travelling? Make a checklist of ostomy essentials, and always carry more than you think you’ll need. Pack supplies in both your hand luggage and hold luggage. And don’t forget your travel certificate for explaining your medical needs at airport security.
6. Build Body Confidence
You are not alone. Thousands of people with an ostomy live active, adventurous lives — including holidays and swimming, yet for some Ostomates, social situations may evoke anxiety about visibility or mishaps. Open communication with trusted individuals and strategic planning can alleviate these concerns. Embracing one's condition and educating others can foster a supportive environment. When it comes to swimming, try start with small steps: wear your swimwear at home, try a local pool before heading abroad, and connect with support groups to share tips and inspiration.
Summer is Yours to Enjoy
Having an ostomy doesn’t mean missing out on sunshine, sea, or style. With the right preparation, support wear, and mindset, you can soak up the season just like everyone else. Comfizz is here with the garments, resources, and reassurance you need to feel confident every step (and splash) of the way.
Explore our range of summer-friendly ostomy support wear https://bit.ly/4iMcoz8 and make this your most confident season yet.
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