Common Stoma Problems and How To Fix Them – Leaks, Odour, Skin Care & More

You’re Not Alone – Everyone Has Stoma Troubles Sometimes

Even with the best products and preparation, it’s completely normal to experience occasional issues with your stoma bag. Leaks, odour, or skin irritation can happen to anyone — especially when you’re still learning what works best for your body.

The good news? Most problems have simple fixes. Here’s a practical guide to help you solve the most common stoma issues and get back to feeling comfortable and confident.

 

💧 Problem 1: Stoma Bag Leaks

Leaks are probably the most stressful part of life with a stoma — but they’re also one of the easiest to manage once you know why they happen.

Common causes:

• The hole in your baseplate isn’t cut to the right size.
• Output is too watery or heavy.
• The adhesive isn’t sticking properly (often due to sweat or oily skin).
• The bag is overfilled or hasn’t been emptied soon enough.

How to fix it:

1. Measure your stoma regularly — its size can change, especially after surgery.
2. Make sure your skin is clean and completely dry before applying your bag.
3. Empty when one-third full to prevent pressure on the adhesive.
4. Try support belts or bag covers to keep things snug and reduce movement.

💡 Tip: Our Stoma Styles covers help protect your bag from friction and hold it comfortably in place — perfect for preventing slippage or skin rubbing.

 

🌬️ Problem 2: Stoma Bag Odour

A little odour when emptying is normal, but constant smell from your bag usually means something’s not quite right.

Possible causes:

• Small leaks around the seal.
• Filter not working correctly.
• Certain foods (like onions, eggs, fish, or cabbage).

How to fix it:

• Make sure your bag fits well and hasn’t reached its wear limit.
• Use deodorising drops or filters if needed.
• Drink plenty of water — it helps dilute odour-causing bacteria.
• Keep a backup bag in your kit so you can change quickly if needed.

🌸 Extra tip: Adding a fresh, breathable stoma bag cover can help you feel cleaner and more confident in social situations.

 

🩹 Problem 3: Skin Irritation Around the Stoma

Red, sore, or itchy skin (called peristomal skin irritation) is common but preventable.

Possible causes:

• Leakage under the adhesive.
• Removing your bag too quickly.
• Sensitivity to certain wipes, soaps, or adhesives.

How to fix it:

1. Clean gently using warm water only — avoid scented soaps.
2. Dry the skin completely before applying your bag.
3. Use barrier wipes or sprays to protect your skin.
4. If soreness continues, contact your stoma nurse — you may need a different appliance.

👕 Comfort tip: Wearing a soft stoma bag cover can prevent fabric irritation and make your bag feel smoother against healing skin.

 

💨 Problem 4: Ballooning or Excess Gas

Ballooning happens when air collects in your bag, making it puff up. It’s harmless but uncomfortable — and sometimes noisy!

Why it happens:

• Swallowing air when eating or drinking.
• Carbonated drinks.
• Certain foods (beans, broccoli, onions, fizzy drinks, etc.).

How to fix it:

• Eat slowly and avoid gulping drinks.
• Use a bag with a working filter to let air escape gradually.
• Let your bag vent safely in the bathroom if needed.
• Track which foods cause gas and adjust gradually.

 

🍲 Problem 5: Blockages

Blockages are less common but need prompt attention. They usually happen when undigested food gets stuck in your bowel or stoma opening.

Warning signs:

• Little or no output from your bag.
• Stomach cramps, swelling, or nausea.
• Watery output or strong smells before a full blockage.

How to fix it:

1. Stop eating solid food and sip warm drinks.
2. Massage your abdomen gently or change position.
3. If there’s still no output after several hours, contact your stoma nurse or hospital immediately.

 

💡 Quick Comfort Checklist

✅ Empty your bag regularly (one-third full rule).

✅ Keep your skin clean and dry.

✅ Re-measure your stoma every few months.

✅ Try different bag brands if you keep having issues.

✅ Use stoma bag covers for comfort, confidence, and hygiene.

🩵 The Stoma Styles Difference

At Stoma Styles, we know that comfort and confidence go hand in hand. Our stoma bag covers are designed to make every day smoother — literally! They:

• Fit ileostomy, colostomy, and urostomy bags.
• Are soft, stretchy, and breathable.
• Reduce friction, noise, and heat.
• Come in hundreds of fun, stylish designs for every mood.

👉 Shop our full range of stoma bag covers and make leaks, odour, and discomfort a thing of the past.

💚 Final Thoughts

Every ostomate experiences problems sometimes — it’s completely normal. But with a little patience, the right products, and good stoma care habits, you can fix almost any issue and live life confidently again.

At Stoma Styles, we’re here to support you with comfort, humour, and style — because living with a stoma should never mean settling for discomfort.