Read our blog for practical tips and routines to help you manage your ostomy with confidence at work.
Business as Usual: Your Ostomy Routine at Work
Returning to work or starting a new job with an ostomy may seem daunting at first. For many, the impact of having an ostomy in the workplace will be minimal. For others, especially those with physically demanding jobs, ostomy care may be needed more frequently during the workday.
The good news is that your ostomy does not need to impact your job or career plans! Read on for tips about navigating your ostomy routine at work.
Talking about ostomy at work
Whether you talk to your employer and colleagues about your stoma is entirely up to you. However, there may be some benefits to discussing your unique situation with someone you trust.
Consider speaking with your supervisor, human resources representative, or a trusted colleague. They may be able to help you identify private bathroom facilities, support more frequent bathroom breaks, arrange for comfortable seating, and ensure you have a personal space to store supplies. 1
Although discussing your ostomy with your employer is optional, understanding your rights regarding legal protections under the Accessible Canada Act may be helpful.2 Don’t hesitate to ask for what you need.
Planning for your ostomy care at work
A little planning ahead can take a lot of worry out of working with an ostomy. Consider these tips to ensure you are prepared to care for your ostomy in the workplace.
1. Keep ostomy supplies handy. Consider keeping a stash of ostomy supplies in your office or locker, or keep supplies in a bag that comes with you to work each day.1 Think about all the supplies you would need if you needed to change your ostomy bag or base plate. Remember not to leave your supplies in a hot car, as this may damage the products (if you must leave them in your vehicle, use an insulated bag).3
2. Wear comfortable clothes that make you feel good. If you have a new ostomy, you will learn over time which clothes are most comfortable for you. You may prefer pants with a waistline that is well above or below your stoma, and loose-fitting tops.
3. Know your bathroom options. Take some time when you return to work or start a new job to explore bathroom options and look for those that are private and have adequate counter space for your supplies.
4. Consider your unique circumstances. If you are physically active or work outdoors, you may need to be prepared to change your ostomy bag more often than if you sit in a temperature-controlled environment. Consult with your healthcare provider for product recommendations tailored to your specific work situation.4
Common ostomy concerns
If you worry about unexpected leakages, odours, or noises from your ostomy, you are not alone. These are common worries for people with ostomies.5
Leakage
Ostomy leakage is one of the most common concerns among people with ostomies.6 To be prepared for the unexpected inconvenience of leakage, consider keeping a change of clothes on hand. A stain-remover pen can handle minor stains. If you suspect a leak, excuse yourself for a bathroom break as soon as possible to take care of your ostomy appliance and your skin to prevent irritation around the stoma.
Tip: Whether you’re sitting at a desk or doing manual labour all day, finding the right fitting product is key to leakage prevention! That’s why SenSura Mio is designed with BodyFit Technology to follow your body’s natural movements to maintain a secure fit and reliable seal.
Odour
If ostomy odour is causing you concern, check out products such as lubricating deodorants meant for ostomy pouches (drops that neutralize odour and make your pouch easier to empty). Some people prefer to use a few drops of lavender or peppermint oil (consult your ostomy nurse before using any natural products near your stoma).7. You may also want to avoid foods that can increase odour, such as vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, and cauliflower, as well as onions, beans, eggs, and fish.8
Tip: For more information on ostomy diet and hydration, check out our Guides to Living and Eating Well written by a nurse and a registered dietician! Available for those with an ileostomy, colostomy, and urostomy.
Discretion
If keeping your ostomy bag discreet is important to you, consider wearing loose-fitting tops. Ostomies produce gas, and sometimes this gas can cause your ostomy bag to “balloon”. To avoid pouch ballooning, you can avoid foods that cause increased gas (such as high-fibre foods, spicy foods, and carbonated beverages) and discreetly release gas from your pouch as needed.8
Tip: Different ostomy pouches can offer different levels of discretion. SenSura Mio is designed to minimize visibility under clothes due to neutral grey colour of the bag – even when you’re wearing white!
Well-being and your ostomy at work
While at work, be sure to keep your well-being at the top of your priority list. Be sure to take your scheduled breaks and care for your ostomy as needed to prevent complications, such as skin irritation around your stoma and leakage. Keep a water bottle handy to stay hydrated and stick to foods that you know will keep you comfortable. With a bit of preparation and practice, going to work with an ostomy will become a seamless part of your routine.
Coloplast Care
If you have specific questions about navigating your ostomy in the workplace, feel free to reach out to a Coloplast Care Advisor at +1-866-293-6349 or casupport@coloplast.com for product guidance and lifestyle advice. You should always contact your healthcare provider with any health-related concerns.