How to Prevent Ostomy Baseplate Detachment/Leakage While Traveling?

There are several possible reasons for leakage during a journey:

  • Insufficient time for pressing and attaching the ostomy baseplate - If you are an "experienced ostomate," you probably won't encounter this issue.
  • Physical activity during the journey is much higher than usual, causing sweating and body movements that can lead to the baseplate coming loose and leakage.
  • Improper diet during the journey, leading to diarrhea, which can make stool more liquid and accelerate leakage.
  • Delayed baseplate replacement and extended wear time can also lead to leakage.

To address these reasons, we recommend "external prevention + internal protection."

External Prevention: When going out, don't worry about the baseplate coming loose - we have ostomy baseplate elastic adhesive tape. To prevent the baseplate's outer edge from lifting, you can use ostomy baseplate elastic adhesive tape at the outer edge of the baseplate after attaching it. This increases the adhesive surface area of the baseplate and the elastic adhesive tape is very soft, thick in the middle, and thin on both sides. It can prevent the baseplate from coming loose or lifting due to excessive physical activity like walking or hiking.

Instructions for using the elastic adhesive tape:

  • Pinch the short edge of the protective paper and peel off the long edge first.
  • Attach half of the elastic adhesive tape, with one side on the edge of the baseplate and the other side on the skin. Repeat the same process for the short edge.
  • It is recommended to use 2 pieces at once; you can attach them both above and below the baseplate or on the left and right.

Internal Protection: When traveling by car, don't worry about central hole leakage - we have an ostomy leakage prevention ring. To prevent leakage at the central hole of the baseplate, in addition to precise cutting of the baseplate's central hole according to the ostomy shape and size, you can use an ostomy leakage prevention ring before attaching the baseplate. It can seal the gap between the central hole of the baseplate and the base of the ostomy, preventing leakage from occurring.

What preparations should you make for your journey?

  • Ostomy Bag Preparation: When traveling, a two-piece ostomy bag is more convenient as it can be easily detached and replaced. For colostomy with formed stool, you can also carry disposable closed-end pouches that are compact and make dressing and walking more comfortable. Be prepared with an adequate supply of ostomy bags, calculating at least double the number you'd normally need based on the travel duration to be prepared for any unexpected situations.
  • Accessories 3+1: Skin care is essential. Prepare adhesive remover, ostomy skin powder, ostomy skin barrier, and ostomy leakage prevention rings. If you are flying, spray products may need to be checked in advance.
  • Other Supplies: Have curved-tip scissors and an ostomy measuring guide. If your stoma has healed and won't change in the short term, consider pre-cutting a few baseplates for backup. Use elastic adhesive tape to secure the baseplate and prevent it from detaching. Additionally, bring several garbage bags to dispose of waste at any time.

What should you be mindful of when flying or driving a private vehicle?

Flying:

✅ Choose ostomy bags with filters to prevent ballooning.

✅ Carry 1-2 pre-cut baseplates/ostomy bags in your carry-on.

❌ Scissors and spray products may need to be checked.

Driving a private vehicle:

❌ Ensure the seatbelt doesn't press against the ostomy (you can wear a small pad or a non-perforated abdominal belt to protect the ostomy).

✅ Prepare multiple garbage bags to handle waste on the road.

❌ Avoid leaving ostomy supplies in the trunk, especially in high-temperature conditions.

Other Travel Tips:

  • Colostomates should pay attention to food hygiene when dining out. While tempting foods may be alluring, try to eat clean and light, avoiding spicy or cold dishes to prevent diarrhea.
  • For urostomates, remember to stay hydrated and maintain a normal urine volume while traveling. Fresh fruit juices can also be consumed, and don't skimp on water to avoid urinary tract infections.

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