Urostomy is a surgical procedure that is done to create a stoma for the urinary system. Urostomy support belts are one of the must-haves when caring for a stoma. They come in three different sizes: small, medium, and large. It is very important to choose the right size to avoid skin irritations and ulcers. Here are all you need to know about urostomy belts.
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Security and Support
Urostomy belts are attached to be wafer and help to make sure that the bag stays in place. They provide additional support in the abdominal area and give a good feeling of security. It also helps to support the weight of the other appliances or accessories attached to the stoma.
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Preventing Leakage
Urostomy belts are wrapped nicely around the abdomen area and attached to loops on the pouch. This can help to maintain an adequate seal, especially when using a convex skin barrier.
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Freedom
Urostomy belts do not only keep your pouch in place, but it also allows you to live your life as usual. Since you are to wear these belts both day and night, they are made in different forms and styles to fit any leisure activity you would like to engage in. Some belts are even so flexible that they adjust to the contours of your body.
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Alternatives to Adhesives
They can also be used as an alternative to adhesives, especially for urostomy patients with sensitive skin. Since adhesives are more likely to cause skin irritations, belts help to reduce peristomal skin rash by preventing the ostomy pouch from dragging.
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Maintenance
Most urostomy belts are usually elastic and will eventually stretch out over time with repeated use. They should be handled with gentle care, hand washed with mild soap and cold water, and finally drip-dried. Despite the care, belts should be replaced at a maximum of every four months or typically 2-3 times per year.
Note: In the case that you are allergic to latex, some manufacturers like Hollister, Coloplast, and ConvaTec produce latex-free belts.
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Proper Positioning
Properly positioning your belts around your stoma offers better comfort. Urostomy belts should be on the sides of the pouching system. They should be at a 3 and 9 o’clock position to ensure proper use and also create a natural plane of support around the waist.
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Belt Adjustment
Asides from positioning, the urostomy belts should not be too tight as it can cause the pouch to be distorted which can lead to leakages from the sides. When you have the belt on, you should be able to comfortably slide two fingers between your belt and skin. Sometimes, they can come upwards to the natural waistline and should be repositioned.
At the very least, using a belt will help to boost your self-esteem and confidence. It can be very difficult to adjust to having a stoma. With a belt on, you can continue to partake in your normal activities and people won’t be able to tell that you have a pouch on.