Can I shower or swim with an ostomy?

Yes! You can shower, bathe, swim, and even exercise with an ostomy. However, there are a few steps you should take before getting in the water.

First, identify whether your pouch has a filter, which may look similar to the example below. If you have a urostomy, you will not have a filter on your pouch. If you have a colostomy or ileostomy, your pouching supplies likely came with a sheet of filter cover stickers.

Apply one of these stickers to the filter any time you know the pouch will be getting wet. Keeping water and other liquids out of the filter is crucial to ensure it continues functioning properly.

Next, check to see how full your appliance is. Consider changing or emptying your pouch before jumping into the tub or the pool, and ensure you have a solid seal.

Disclaimer: This content is not intended to substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please do not use it in place of a visit or consultation with a qualified healthcare provider.