For some 70,000 people a year, ostomy surgery is a life saving option. However, it does have life-changing effects. The ostomate (post-surgical patient) must wear a pouch over the stoma to collect the waste materials that had previously left the body through the bladder or rectum. As the pouch fills, its weight can pull at the area around the stoma, and it can rub against the skin when the wearer moves, causing irritation. The formation of the stoma and need for the external pouch may impact a person's self-image as well, and create the need for wardrobe modifications.
Helping people with both challenges is Ostomy Secrets. They make attractive undergarments and wraps designed to meet the special needs of ostomates. All underwear and wraps have a pocket to provide support for the collection pouch while holding it in place against the body, preventing any tell-tale bulges, and enabling the user to wear tailored clothing. Both mens' and women's designs feature waistbands high enough to cover the barrier that holds the pouch in place over the stoma. They are suitable for use whether the stoma is located on the left or right side.
The woman's line of panties features styles ranging from classic full-cut to thongs. They come in a wide variety of colors with lacy trim, and a choice of microfiber or cotton fabrics. The wraps feature bows and lace as well, and can be worn under daytime attire, while swimming or exercising, or during intimate moments to stabilize and conceal the collection pouch. Bathing suit bottoms with the inner pocket for the collection pouch are available, too.
Cut like conventional boxer shorts, the men's line comes in a cotton/lycra blend in a choice of black, white, or grey. They, too, have the inside pocket for concealment and support of the collection bag. Wraps designed for swimming and wear under regular clothing are available, too. As for ladies, they also can be used during intimacy for the same reasons.Children, too, have to undergo ostomy surgery for many of same reasons that adults do. For them, wraps are available in extra small sizes. They can be worn while swimming and during other sports as well as regular clothing.
All the products are machine washable using powdered detergent and the gentle cycle. Air drying is recommended.
The company founder, Lisa Becker, won the 2008 National Great Comebacks award (founded by ConvaTec) for her entrepreneurship and advocacy for ostomy patients. Ostomy Secrets garments were featured in the fashion show at the 2009 United Ostomy Associations of America Conference. Ms. Becker also spoke at the September 2010 Metro Maryland Ostomy Association.
Fran Jablway
and
Hulet Smith, OT
