If you have a stoma, or you think you may in the future, you’ve probably considered the question ‘Can you swim with a stoma bag?’. The answer is yes! Having a stoma doesn’t mean you have to give up swimming – whether it’s doing laps in a pool, relaxing in a hot tub, or wild swimming in the sea or rivers.
In this guide, we’ll walk through how to swim with a stoma bag, what to wear, how to keep your stoma bag secure while swimming and tips from ostomates. This advice applies whether you have a colostomy, ileostomy or urostomy.
Can you swim with a stoma bag?
Yes, it’s perfectly safe and hygienic to go swimming with a stoma. You can swim just like you did before stoma surgery; it is a great form of low-impact, full-body exercise that you can take at your own pace. Your stoma pouch is designed to be waterproof, so water won’t enter your bag or your stoma (water doesn’t harm your stoma anyway, so don’t worry!).
Just be sure to wait until you are fully healed from surgery – this usually won’t be any sooner than 6 weeks post-surgery. Speak to your stoma nurse or doctor if you are unsure.
Read our guide to living with a stoma
How can you swim with a stoma bag?
So what steps should you take before swimming with your stoma bag? There’s no need for a special stoma appliance – just use the one you feel most confident in. Most modern stoma bags are waterproof. However, you should use a filter cover (the little stickers that come in your box of bags) to prevent water from blocking it, which can cause ballooning. Do check your pouch model though because some newer ones don’t require filter covers – check with your manufacturer or stoma nurse if you’re unsure.
Some bags perform better than others in wet conditions. If your bag isn’t sticking well after getting wet or is prone to ballooning or leaks, try samples from other manufacturers. You might find one that works better for you. Find out more: The ultimate guide to stoma bags
Worried about your stoma bag not sticking to your skin while swimming? Here are a few tips to give you peace of mind:
- Apply your pouch 1 hour before swimming: This allows the adhesive time to fully stick to your skin.
- Use barrier film: Products like StoCare Protect can help improve adhesion.
- Use flange extenders: These offer extra security to keep the appliance in place by increasing the adhesive area.
- Eat well in advance of your swim and avoid foods that might cause problems. Find out more: Foods to eat with a stoma
- Empty your drainable or urostomy pouch before you get in the water.
- Make sure your peristomal skin is completely dry before applying a fresh bag.
- Keep supplies nearby in a small waterproof or easy-to-carry bag in case you need to change quickly. Include pouches, wipes, adhesive remover and any other products you use.
After swimming with a stoma
After your swim, you can dry off the pouch and continue wearing it if it doesn’t need changing; you may be able to use a hand dryer or hair dryer for this.
If it does need changing, using a disabled loo can make this easier, as you will have more privacy and space, plus a sink. As an ostomate, you are entitled to use disabled loos and can get a Radar Key to access locked ones. If you are somewhere that doesn’t have toilets or changing rooms, a long shirt or towel can help to give you some privacy.
What to wear while swimming with a stoma
There are no rules over what you should wear while swimming with a stoma; choose whatever makes you feel comfortable and confident. Some people are happy in bikinis or Speedos, while others prefer something more covered like:
- High-waisted bottoms, swimsuits, or tankinis: These can offer extra coverage and hold.
- Specialist stoma swimwear available from brands like Whiterose, Vanilla Blush and CUI Wear
- Stoma belts or wraps for keeping the stoma bag snug to your abdomen.
- Stoma bag covers: You can even find bag covers that match your swimwear!
It might be worth testing your outfit in the bath or shower at home first. This will hopefully reassure you that it will hold in place, not leak and look and feel fine when wet.
Water sports with a stoma
If you enjoy water sports like paddleboarding, surfing, or kayaking, there’s no reason that your stoma should stop you. All the above advice still applies, but you might also consider a stoma belt or protector. These may help reduce the risk of a parastomal hernia if you will be engaging your abdominal muscles. They are available on prescription from the NHS or you can buy your own from a range of online shops such as Mr Colitis Stoma, as designed by ostomate Harvey.
Also, you don’t have to avoid diving or jumping in water if you have a stoma. As long as your stoma bag is properly secured and feels snug to your abdomen, it is perfectly safe, but you may wish to check with your stoma nurse to be sure.
Brittani Nicholl is an Australian surfer who hasn’t let her Crohn’s disease or stoma stop her from hitting the waves! Find out more about her in our blog about celebrities with a stoma.
Conclusion
Swimming with a stoma can feel daunting at first, so start slowly to build your confidence. If you are feeling insecure, try to remember that everyone else is focused on their own swim. Chances are, no one will notice (or care about) your stoma bag. With a bit of preparation and the right mindset, you’ll be back in the water with confidence in no time.
Don’t let your stoma hold you back from doing the activities you want to do. If it is holding you back, speak to your stoma nurse, who should be able to provide advice to help you feel more confident.
Although all our articles are written alongside qualified medical professionals, this information is for guidance only and does not replace advice given by your healthcare advisors.
Further reading
Festivals and concerts with a stoma
