Ostomy and odor control
A well-fitting ostomy pouching system should not have any odor while you’re wearing it. If you’re noticing odor, check that the there are no leaks in your pouching system.
Odor can occur when gas is released from the pouch (for those with colostomies and ileostomies) or from the output when you’re changing your pouch.
To keep odor to a minimum, consider these ideas:
- Use odor eliminator drops designed to minimize ostomy pouch odor
- Try spray and tablet ostomy deodorants to see what works best for you
- Change your pouch and/or skin barrier if you notice any leakage
- Consider changing to an ostomy pouch with a charcoal filter (specially crafted to neutralize odors)
- Practice moderation with foods that may cause your output to smell, such as onions, eggs, beans, cabbage and other odor-causing items
- Empty your pouch when it’s 1/3 full
- Add colostomy lubricant to your pouch to keep output flowing smoothly and prevent waste from getting stuck in the pouch
- Spritz deodorant spray in the room before and after you change or empty your pouch