Living with a stoma changes your life in a lot of ways. But I find if you keep on top of your supplies and have everything organised, life becomes ten times easier. Here’s how I keep myself prepared, even on the days when my energy is low, without making things more complicated than they need to be:
Order well in advance
If there’s one thing I’ve learned since getting my stoma, it’s to order supplies earlier than you think you need to.
I used to wait until I only had a couple of bags left and this caused so much unnecessary stress. Now, I place my order when I’ve got around two weeks worth of supplies remaining. It gives plenty of time for delivery delays and helps me feel on top of things rather than constantly rushing to catch up.
Being prepared doesn’t make you ‘over the top’, it makes you sensible. And it gives you one less thing to worry about in a life that already asks a lot from you.
Have an organised storage system
I love seeing an organised drawer of stoma supplies! I have things organised in a way that works for me and more importantly, it’s easy to maintain when I’m tired. I have a clear set of drawers in my bathroom where I have the bulk of my supplies and I have a designated drawer for each item. I line them up in a way so I can see everything I have.
Another thing nobody will tell you is that stoma products do have expiry dates. I try to rotate stock in my drawer; I do this by keeping the newest supplies at the back. This avoids products becoming too old which can affect adhesion.
I then have 5 or 6 bag changes in my bedside drawer, this is more accessible for me and I just top it up when it’s running low. I do the majority of my bag changes laid down on my bed (I find this most comfortable for me) so it means I’m able to have everything laid out where I can see it. Having them right next to me in my bedside drawer is perfect!
I also know if I have a bag leak at the night, I have supplies right on hand for when I need them.
If going away, take more supplies with you
Travelling with a stoma can feel a little scary at first, but one habit that has genuinely transformed the way I prepare for travelling is always pack more supplies than you think you’ll need, and then double it. I know it sounds dramatic but trust me, future you will be grateful. Life is unpredictable and anything can happen. Different foods, routines and weather can all play a part, and leaks always seem to pick the worst times to show up! So whenever I go away, I always pack more than I think I’ll need – this way you’re prepared for any scenario.
I also separate my supplies when I travel; the majority of supplies will come in my hand luggage where they cannot be lost. Most airlines offer extra, free luggage for medical supplies so don’t be afraid to ask!
Use a reliable delivery service
One of the biggest game-changers for me has been using a delivery service I genuinely trust. Life with a stoma already brings enough anxiety, the last thing you need is stress over whether your supplies will turn up on time.
I get my all supplies delivered with Respond. They stock all my favourite products, from my remover spray to the complimentary dry wipes. I don’t have to chase, nag, or constantly double-check whether something is coming. I know everything will be handled. The process is really simple, they send a link via text and I can order everything with one click. And if I ever do need to speak to someone, I know there is a friendly person at the end of the phone ready to help me.
Prepare ‘kits’ so you have supplies when going out
Have you ever been in a situation where your bag has leaked when out the house without supplies? I sure have. I have learnt from my mistakes and now have prepared ‘emergency kits’ for when I am out and about. You will be surprised how much you can fit into a small handbag! I have a full bag change, wipes and everything in a small toiletry bag which I take – although admittedly I don’t always remember it. But on those low energy days, having an ‘emergency kit’ prepped ready to go can make all the difference. It can be a comfort blanket when living with a stoma and a small confidence boost.
Don’t be afraid to ask for what you need
For a long time, I felt guilty for asking for certain supplies. But it’s important to remember that your needs may change from month to month. What works one month, may suddenly stop working the next. I have a high output stoma and psoriasis on my skin; this means I sometimes need a lot more supplies than on my normal order. It’s important to live with dignity, and having everything you need allows this.
You should never go without because you’re scared to ask for supplies. Having the right supplies, and enough of them isn’t demanding, it’s simply taking care of yourself and what you need.
Store supplies in a cool, dry place
This one is important and I learned the hard way! Stoma supplies need to be stored in a cool, dry place. If things aren’t stored correctly, it can affect adhesion and not stick the way they should! Last summer I left a big toiletry bag of supplies in my car and let’s just say I had no supplies left… they were all melted and unusable.
Ever since then, I have been mindful about where I store things. Somewhere away from radiators, direct sunlight and damp bathrooms. A cool, dry drawer or cupboard is perfect.
For me, staying prepared has helped my mental health. When my drawers are full and everything is stored neatly, I feel calmer. When my order arrives on time, I feel safer. When I know my emergency kit is in my bag, I feel more confident leaving the house. It’s like creating tiny pockets of safety in a life that can be unpredictable.
These habits help my everyday feel a bit lighter and I hope they make yours a bit easier too.
You’ve got this!
Alice x
@living.with.ileostomy
