how to change a colostomy pouch？

2025-09-24
Author: Zodelo Ostomy

The colostomy pouch is a medical collection pouch specifically designed to receive excrement and gas. Some patients, due to intestinal diseases or trauma, are unable to excrete normally. After undergoing stoma surgery, the excrement is discharged into the colostomy pouch through the stoma. Why is it very important and useful to know how to change a colostomy pouch? This not only helps patients keep themselves and their wounds clean, but is also an indispensable part for them to return to a normal life. Therefore, both the patient themselves and their family members need to know how to change a colostomy pouch.

Zodelo is well aware of the significance of colostomy pouch supplies for stoma patients. Therefore, we have always been committed to stoma care to meet the experience and quality of life of all our customers. At the same time, Zodelo will always provide you with popular science and practical knowledge about ostomy care.

what is an ostomy?

1. The definition of ostomy

To know how to change a colostomy pouch. First of all, it is necessary to understand what is an ostomy. Ostomy is an incision made in the abdomen of a patient through stoma surgery, through which the body’s excrement can be discharged, replacing the original excretion function.

Stoma shape: The surface of the stoma is usually red and moist.

Stoma types: Generally classified as Colostomy, Ileostomy, and Urostomy

2. What is a colostomy pouch?

Colostomy pouch is excrement collection pouchs specially designed for patients who have undergone stoma surgery. They usually consist of a sealed collection pouch and a bonded base.

It is used to replace the original excretory function, helping patients keep themselves clean and hygienic at all times and prevent their wounds from being contaminated by excrement.

3. Types of colostomy pouches

To understand how to change a colostomy pouch. It is also necessary to know the types of colostomy pouch. It is mainly divided into the following four types

One-piece Colostomy Pouch: The One-piece Colostomy Pouch body is connected to the base and can be replaced as a whole when changing, making it more convenient and faster to use.
Two-piece Colostomy Pouch: The Two-piece Colostomy Pouch pouch body is separated from the base. When replacing, the base remains on the skin surface and can be reused. Just replace the pouch body. There is no need to frequently change the pasted base, reducing irritation to the skin.
Drainable Colostomy Pouch: The bottom can be opened to empty excrement. It is suitable for people with looser excrement, frequent defecation or those in the postoperative recovery period.
Closed-end Colostomy Pouch: The pouch body is designed in a Closed manner. When filled, it can be discarded as a whole. It is simple and convenient to use and can be replaced quickly. It is suitable for excrement, solid waste, or when it is inconvenient to replace during work or travel.

4. Why is a colostomy pouch needed?

Due to tumors, cancer, inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis), trauma, ischemia, congenital malformations or other reasons in the patient’s intestine or steel door, the intestinal function cannot be used normally. The only option is to temporarily or permanently remove the diseased area and open a new outlet in the abdomen to discharge excrement. Therefore, a pouch is needed to collect feces and urine. So it is important to know how to change a colostomy pouch.

Maintain hygiene:Since the stoma cannot control the continuous discharge of excrement, one can only keep oneself and the surrounding area clean and hygienic through the stoma pouch.
Protect the skin: The base plate adheres closely to the area around the stoma, effectively isolating excrement and preventing it from contaminating and irritating the wound and skin.
Odor isolation:The membrane and internal carbon filter of the colostomy pouch pouch can effectively adsorb and isolate odors, avoiding embarrassment.
For easy observation of the stoma: Transparent or windowed stoma pouchs can effectively help patients observe the recovery of the stoma and the condition of their skin.

Step-By-Step Guide On How To Change A Colostomy Pouch

1. Preparations before replacement

1.1. Ideal timing for replacement

1-2 hours after a meal or before eating in the early morning, when intestinal peristalsis is relatively stable, it is the most suitable time to change the disposable ostomy pouch.
Avoid drinking large amounts of carbonated beverages or gas-producing foods such as beans, Onions, coarse grains and fried foods right after consumption.

1.2 Space Replacement and Hygiene

In a well-lit area, the place where items are changed should be kept clean and hygienic.
The room temperature should be moderate to avoid being too cold or too hot, which may cause the adhesive to be weak.
Items are placed in the order of operation for easy access at any time.
It is suitable for use with a mirror to assist in changing, providing a clearer field of vision without the need to bend over.

2. Steps for how to changing a colostomy pouch

Step 1: Wash your hands

Before replacement, wash your hands thoroughly to keep them clean and avoid contaminating the stoma and causing infection during the process

Step 2: Remove the old stoma pouch

If the pouch to be replaced is an emptying one, the excrement inside the pouch needs to be drained first.
Hold the skin with one hand and gently remove the adhered base with the other. If it cannot be removed, it can be used in combination with a glue remover.
Discard the old disposable colostomy pouch.

Step 3: Observe the stoma

A normal stoma should be bright red and moist. If the color is incorrect or there is erosion, exudation or other conditions, one should go to the hospital for medical treatment in time.

Step Four: Clean the stoma

Gently wipe the stoma with warm water and a soft towel until it is clean.
Wait for the stoma to dry or use it in combination with stoma powder.

Step 5: Measure the diameter of the stoma

Measure the stoma with a measuring card to determine its diameter.

Step 6: Cutting

Based on the measured diameter, the opening diameter of the cutting base needs to be increased by 1-2mm. Confirm that the cutting edge is smooth and flat.

Step 7: Paste the chassis

Remove the undercarriage backing and gently press against the stoma.
Check for any wrinkles or curled edges around to ensure a firm and seamless bond.

Step 8: Organize the discharge outlet

Empty the bottom of the pouch, fold it and fasten the clips or Velcro tightly to ensure a seal and prevent leakage.

3. How to Change a colostomy pouch in different scenarios

3.1. Surgical recovery period

As the stoma is in the recovery period, its size changes constantly. It is necessary to measure the diameter of the stoma each time to avoid inappropriate cutting of the chassis
When replacing, it is necessary to pay close attention to the condition of the stoma, whether the color or coagulation status is abnormal
As many patients are not adapted to the stoma in the early stage, they need to practice more to strengthen their memory and avoid leakage or stoma infection caused by incorrect replacement steps.

3.2. Travel and outings:

It is necessary to prepare sufficient stoma pouchand stoma AIDS in advance to avoid being unable to replace them in time
In hot environments, due to excessive sweating, the replacement interval should be shortened
In cold environments, it is necessary to reserve the chassis in advance to avoid poor adhesion due to low temperatures

3.3. When doing exercise and fitness:

Before exercising, it can be changed in combination with anti-leak rings and anti-leak ointment to prevent the leakage of odors when sweating during exercise or when the movement is large
If swimming, you need to wait for 1 to 2 hours before getting into the water. After swimming, check the edge of the chassis to avoid leakage.

What items need to be prepared when changing the ostomy pouch?

Clean one-piece colostomy pouch or clean two-piece colostomy pouch:One-piece colostomy pouchs are more convenient to replace, while two-piece colostomy pouchs only need to replace the pouch body, and the base can be used multiple times. Patients can choose the most suitable ostomy pouch for themselves according to their own needs.
Stoma scissors: Professional stoma scissors should be used to cut an opening that matches the size of the stoma to prevent leakage or friction at the stoma from being too large or too small
Wet wipes or soft tissues: They are used to clean the skin around the stoma. Avoid using wet wipes with added alcohol or fragrance to prevent skin irritation.
Warm water:Used to rinse the skin around the stoma, it is gentle and non-irritating.
Glue remover:Helps remove the residual adhesive on the adhered chassis
Stoma powder:It is used to keep the stoma area dry and comfortable and help the base adhere more firmly.
Sealing rings and stoma paste:Fill the creases or depressions around the stoma skin to enhance sealing performance and prevent leakage.

How often should I change my pouching system?

According to the type of colostomy pouch:

One-piece ostomy pouch: It is generally recommended to replace it every 1 to 3 days.
Two-piece colostomy pouch:As the base can last for 3 to 5 days, the pouch body can be replaced separately as needed.
Drainable ostomy pouchs:The replacement frequency depends on the patient’s own condition. Generally, more than half of the excrement inside the pouch needs to be emptied.
Closed-end ostomy pouch: For single use only. When the pouch is full of excrement, it needs to be replaced immediately with a new one.

Situations where the colostomy pouch needs to be replaced immediately:

If the colostomy pouch leaks or the edges are lifted, it will continue to leak if used, which may cause skin redness, swelling, allergies or eczema problems
If there is an unpleasant smell or the pouch exceeds half of its capacity, it needs to be replaced immediately to avoid leakage or swelling caused by excessive excrement or gas inside the pouch.
If there is itching, redness or a burning sensation around the stoma, the skin may have allergic reactions, eczema or other problems. A new stoma pouch should be replaced immediately and medical attention should be sought promptly.

Is changing or emptying the pouch difficult?

In the early stage after stoma surgery: Due to the sudden change from a normal person to a stoma patient, the patient and their family may not be very accustomed to discharging excrement through the stoma, finding it troublesome to wear a stoma pouch and the cleaning process cumbersome, and even experiencing irritability and anxiety. However, after adaptation, the patient can skillfully change and clean the colostomy pouch, and it gradually becomes a part of daily life.

1. Difficulties in replacing or emptying pouchs and how to solve them

Leakage issue: It can be used in combination with sealing rings or anti-leak ointment to enhance the sealing between the skin and the base and prevent leakage and odor.
Odor issue:Choose a plastic pouch with a carbon filter to absorb odors and avoid odor and pouch swelling problems.
Skin sensitivity issue: Select a base made of non-irritating silicone and avoid using irritating cleaning agents during the cleaning process.

How to empty a colostomy pouch?

1. Clear frequency

Generally, when the excrement in the colostomy pouch reaches half, it needs to be emptied in time.
It is generally necessary to empty it 4 to 6 times a day, depending on the patient’s specific condition, physical condition and living habits.
If there is a problem of colostomy pouch swelling, it should also be emptied in time.

2. Clearing Steps

It is not only we need to know how to change a colostomy pouch, we also need to know how to empty the colostomy pouch. Prepare the necessary items: a new colostomy pouch body, wet wipes or tissues, and a collection point for excrement

Step 1: Wash your hands thoroughly

Step 2: Align the opening of the colostomy pouch with the toilet or a dedicated tool for collecting feces

Step 3: Slowly open the drain outlet at the bottom of thecolostomy pouch and align it with the toilet or other collection area

Step 4: Press the pouch body with your hand to help it empty more smoothly and comprehensively

Step 5: Rinse the inside of the pouch with water to keep it clean.

Step 6: Re-close the bottom clip or Velcro to ensure the pouch opening is tightly sealed to prevent any residue from seeping out.

3. How to deal with a colostomy pouch filled with feces?

Leakage problem:When the colostomy pouch is too full of excrement, it is prone to leakage.
Odor problem:If not cleaned for a long time, there will be an odor problem, which will affect normal life and social interaction.
Skin irritation issues:Prolonged skin contact may lead to eczema or ulcers.
Closed end ostomy pouch: Discard directly after use and handle as medical waste or domestic garpouche.

Can you buy special colostomy pouchs that don't need to be replaced frequently?

At present, there is no special colostomy pouch that does not need to be replaced frequently. The pouch body must be replaced regularly and kept clean and sealed. Patients should choose the most suitable colostomy pouch based on their own conditions and living habits, in combination with the doctor’s advice.

The common types of colostomy pouchs available on the market can be classified as:

One-piece colostomy pouch:It is generally recommended to replace it every 1 to 3 days.
Two-piece colostomy pouch:As the base can last for 3 to 5 days, the pouch body can be replaced separately as needed.
Drainable colostomy pouch: The replacement frequency depends on the patient’s own condition. Generally, more than half of the excrement inside the pouch needs to be emptied.
Closed end ostomy pouch: For single use only. When the colostomy pouch is full of excrement, the disposable colostomy pouch needs to be replaced immediately with a new one.
Ostomy pouch with filters:They can effectively absorb odors, reducing the embarrassment of odors and the problem of pouch swelling.

When to call the doctor？

Although most patients can properly care for the stoma and replace the stoma pouch in a timely manner, they should still go to the hospital immediately if they encounter the following situations to avoid the condition from worsening.

Stoma issue:A normal stoma should be bright red and moist. If the ostomy pouch appears purple or black, there may be a situation of insufficient blood supply. There is continuous bleeding from the stoma, or there is redness, swelling or erosion.
Skin problems: The skin around the stoma remains persistently red, swollen and ulcerated, with symptoms of itching, pain or exudation.
Gastrointestinal problems:Long-term constipation and inability to excrete feces. Severe abdominal pain or diarrhea, nausea, vomiting and other conditions may occur when there is blood or purulent discharge in the stool.
The issue with the stoma pouch: If the ostomy pouch keeps leaking and affects normal life, it is necessary to consult a professional doctor in time for advice on how to handle it.

FAQ About How To Change A Colostomy Pouch

Q1. What To Do When Colostomy Pouch Keeps Leaking?

Replace the stoma pouch: At the same time, remeasure the diameter of the stoma, cut the base plate and make sure the opening size is 1-2mm larger than the stoma size.
Use stoma auxiliary products: Such as leak-proof rings and leak-proof pastes to enhance the adhesion between the base plate and the skin, ensure a stronger bond and better sealing performance.
Change to a more suitable pouch for yourself:You can contact a professional doctor and, based on your specific condition and living habits, modify the pouch style or choose a more adhesive base
Increase the frequency of replacement:Avoid leakage due to the pouch being too full of contents.

Q2. Can I change the colostomy pouch after taking a bath?

Sure, taking a bath can clean the skin around the stoma, but it’s important to keep the area dry.

You can take a bath with a plastic pouch because it is waterproof. Just dry it after washing and keep it dry. You can also take a bath without a pouch, but it is necessary to avoid using soap or body wash to irritate the stoma area. Also, be careful to prevent the stoma from being strongly stimulated by water flow to avoid trauma.

Q3. Is it necessary to change the colostomy pouch in advance at night?

This needs to be determined based on each person’s specific condition, personal habits and the type of stoma.

If the patient has a large amount of stool or a high gas emission, it is recommended to change the stool before going to bed to avoid the risk of leakage and pouch swelling at night. If the amount of stool is small, there is no need to change it.
If the ostomy pouch is nearly half full, it should be emptied or replaced in time before going to bed to avoid leakage and swelling at night.
If you drink a large amount of water or carbonated beverages before going to bed, or consume a lot of gas-producing foods such as beans and garlic, you should also change or empty them in time before going to bed to avoid excessive excrement causing leakage.

Conclusion — How To Change A Colostomy Pouch

Knowing how to change a colostomy pouch is a necessary skill for patients in their daily care. Therefore, all patients and their families should clearly know how to correctly change the stoma pouch so as to better protect the stoma and maintain a high-quality life. Of course, when encountering problems that cannot be solved, one should seek medical attention promptly and professional support to prevent the condition from worsening.

Zodelo is well aware of the significance of ostomy pouchs for ostomy patients. Therefore, we constantly research and upgrade them, and at the same time listen to customer feedback and opinions to launch all types of colostomy pouches, such as: Airlora Series, Calmlora Series, Mellora Series, Joylora Series and ostomy product accessories , just to meet the experience of all customers. Welcome to our website to get more stoma care guidelines and product selection support. If you need any assistance, please contact us.

More Resources:

Colostomy— NHS
Ostomy: Adapting to life after colostomy, ileostomy or urostomy— Mayoclinic
What is a stoma?— Colostomyuk
Colorectal Cancer: Tips for Living with a Colostomy— Rochester
Types of Colostomies and What to Expect— Cancer.org