Colostomy Bags: One-Piece vs Two-Piece Systems Buying Guide

For people who have had colostomy surgery because of cancer, colon problems or other conditions affecting the lower bowels, a colostomy bag is a daily necessity rather than an optional accessory. It is a soft plastic pouch that collects stool from an opening in the abdominal wall called a stoma. The stoma is created by a doctor during colostomy surgery, and it may be needed for the long term or only temporarily while the colon heals or recovers from an injury or disease.

Colostomy bags are easy to use and do not interfere with most activities, although they do take some getting used to. Your healthcare team will show you how to care for your stoma and how to handle your new supplies, and you are free to ask any question along the way. Telling friends and family before surgery often makes the adjustment easier — they will understand if you prefer not to show the pouch or if you need some privacy while you get used to it.

How Colostomy Bags Work and How to Prepare

• A stoma is created during colostomy surgery to treat cancer, colon problems or other conditions affecting the lower bowels
• A colostomy bag can be worn permanently or temporarily while the colon heals or recovers from injury or disease
• The system is simple to use and does not interfere with most activities, but an adjustment period is normal
• Talking to friends and family before surgery helps you get understanding and privacy while you adapt
• Your healthcare team will teach you stoma care and how to use your supplies, and you can ask questions at any time

Choosing Between One-Piece and Two-Piece Systems

Colostomy bags come in several types, and each type has its own benefits and drawbacks. Your doctor will recommend a bag based on your needs and the type of stoma you have.

• One-piece systems: a skin barrier fits around the stoma, and the base plate and bag are removed together when the bag is full
• Some one-piece systems offer flushable liners that can be used instead of the bag itself
• Two-piece systems: the base plate and pouch are separate; you can fill the base plate with water to help wash out the stoma before fitting a fresh pouch
• Two-piece options include a reusable pouch changed every few days, or a closed pouch emptied twice a day
• Special liners can be added to some of these bags to help prevent leakage

When and How to Change a Colostomy Bag

• Change your pouch when bowel activity is usually lower, for example in the morning before eating or at least 1 hour after a meal
• Empty the pouch and clean the skin around the stoma first, keeping the fitting surface dry
• Check how well the base plate seals against the skin and deal with any leakage promptly
• A closed pouch is normally emptied twice a day, while a reusable pouch is changed every few days

Clothing and Everyday Products for Ostomates

• High-rise pants and underwear with a pocket support and conceal the pouch comfortably
• Women can choose swimwear with a mesh lining that helps hide the pouch
• A wide variety of ostomy-specific underwear is available, such as bras and panties with gathered fabric that keeps the bag out of view
• Some colostomy panties have a zipper so the pouch can be changed easily
• Your ostomy nurse can teach you how to use these products and can also point you to financial resources that may help pay for your colostomy supplies

If you are sourcing liquid, paste or medical-grade flexible packaging, contact KODY PACK (Guangdong Kody Packaging Products Co., Ltd.) to discuss spout pouches, bag-in-box (BIB) systems, stand-up pouches with taps and laminated roll film.