Clothing options remain endless after you've had ostomy surgery. When your abdomen has healed, you'll no doubt be able to wear many of the clothes you currently have.  However there may be some styles you want to avoid and other styles you find more appealing.

Your ostomy pouch is meant to lie flat against your body, and it will not be obvious to others. Many of today's pouches are designed to be unnoticeable even when you wear the most stylish, form-fitting clothes.

It's important to empty your pouch regularly, since it may bulge outward when stool or urine collects in the bottom of the pouch. Most Coloplast pouches have a unique tuck-away pocket that holds the end of the pouch with a Velcro® closure. By simply folding the rolled-up closure into the tuck-away pocket, you shorten the pouch length.

What types of undergarments do you recommend?

In general underwear should be snug, to help keep the pouch in place, but not so snug that stool or urine cannot pass to the bottom of the pouch. 

Men can wear with either briefs or boxers.  However, jockey-type briefs usually work best to support the pouch. Boxers offer less support for the pouch. If you prefer boxers, you can adapt this style by sewing a “pocket” into the waistline to carry and support the pouch.  

Many women prefer wearing a snug—not tight-fitting—girdle. Cotton knit, spandex or similar types of stretch underpants are also useful. Panty hose, with its snug waistband, is another good option.

What are some good options for men's clothing?

Since many men wear their pants below their natural waistline, their pouching system may be above the beltline. You might see if you like wearing trousers one size larger, since this may allow you to put the belt above the pouching system. Keep in mind too that trousers with a pleated front hide the pouch better than trousers with a flat front.

If your stoma is near your waist, avoid tight trousers or belts. Depending on the location of your stoma you may prefer to wear suspenders, especially if you find belts uncomfortable or restrictive. 

Another option is to wear an item of clothing over your trousers. Vests, which come in sporty, casual or business styles, can be used to hide the pouch. Sweaters or jackets are another option in cooler climates. 

For active wear, consider biker-style shorts. They can be worn alone or layered under shorts, exercise pants or swim trunks for added security.

What are some good options for women's clothing?

As is often the case for any woman, finding pants that fit your body shape can be a challenge. If your stoma is near your waist, avoid tight pants, skirts or belts. You may feel more comfortable wearing pants or skirts with a higher or looser waistband, or with an elastic waistband. Pants or skirts with pleats near the waistband may hide the pouch better than those with a flat front. Clothing designers have recognized that women come in all shapes and sizes. So you can now find pants with a variety of rises (waistline heights)—allowing you to find a style to fit your body and your needs.

For active wear, consider wearing yoga pants or stretch pants to help support the pouch during exercise. You might also try biker-style shorts since they can be worn alone or layered under shorts, exercise pants or other stretch pants.

What type of swimming suits should I look for?

Women may want to choose a swimsuit that has a lining to provide a smoother profile. Many suits come with shirring (rows of gathers) across the abdomen, which can also conceal the pouch. 

Men have several options too. For instance, trunks with an elastic waistband and Bermuda-style shorts offer you a variety of waistband positions. If the stoma is above your belt line, consider wearing trunks with a tank shirt.

Some final comments

Although there may be some styles of clothing you want to avoid after your surgery, you still have many choices open to you. If you have any questions regarding stoma care, product usage and availability please contact your Coloplast Consumer Care Specialist at 1-888-726-7872.  

Coloplast does not practice medicine. The recommendations and information in this material are not medical advice.  Contact your healthcare profession for personal medical advice or diagnosis. IF YOU THINK YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY, CALL 911.