How to Change Your Ostomy Bag: A Step-by-Step Guide for New Ostomates in Singapore
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Written by our EMIS+ nursing team — because every new ostomate deserves clear, compassionate guidance from day one.
Learning to change your ostomy bag is one of the most important skills you will develop after stoma surgery. With the right technique, the right products, and a little practice, changing your ostomy bag becomes a straightforward part of your daily routine.
Understanding Your Stoma
A stoma is a surgically created opening in your abdomen that allows waste to exit your body into a collection bag called an ostomy pouch. Your stoma may be a colostomy (from the colon), ileostomy (from the small intestine), or urostomy (for urinary diversion). A healthy stoma is moist, pink to red in colour, and slightly raised from the skin.
What You Need Before You Start
- Ostomy pouch system (one-piece or two-piece)
- Stoma measuring guide or template
- Scissors (curved stoma scissors if available)
- Adhesive remover wipes
- Soft wipes or gauze and warm water
- Stoma powder (if you have skin irritation)
- Barrier ring or paste (if recommended)
- Disposal bag for soiled pouches
- Mirror (helpful for new ostomates)
Step-by-Step: How to Change Your Ostomy Bag
Step 1: Choose the Right Time
The best time is when your stoma is least active — typically in the morning before eating, or 1–2 hours after a meal.
Step 2: Wash Your Hands
Wash thoroughly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
Step 3: Prepare Your New Pouch
Measure your stoma using a measuring guide (size changes in first 6–8 weeks post-surgery). Cut the skin barrier opening 2–3mm larger than your stoma. Warm the adhesive against your palm for 30–60 seconds for a stronger bond.
Step 4: Empty the Existing Pouch
If your pouch is drainable, empty it into the toilet before removal.
Step 5: Remove the Old Pouch
Use an adhesive remover wipe and slowly peel the skin barrier from top to bottom. Never pull sharply — this damages peristomal skin. Place the soiled pouch in your disposal bag.
Step 6: Clean the Peristomal Skin
Gently clean the skin around the stoma with warm water and soft gauze. Pat completely dry — the skin must be dry before applying the new barrier. Moisture is the leading cause of poor seal and skin irritation.
Step 7: Assess Your Stoma and Skin
Check stoma colour (pink-red is healthy; dark purple or black requires urgent attention), peristomal skin (should be intact), and stoma shape/size.
Step 8: Apply Accessories if Needed
Apply stoma powder to raw skin, barrier ring around the stoma opening, or barrier paste to fill uneven contours as recommended by your nurse.
Step 9: Apply the New Pouch
Centre the opening over your stoma, press firmly from the stoma outward, and hold for 30–60 seconds to activate the adhesive. For two-piece systems, click the pouch to the baseplate.
Step 10: Dispose and Wash Hands
Seal your disposal bag and wash your hands again.
How Often Should You Change Your Ostomy Bag?
One-piece drainable: empty 2–3x/day, change wafer every 3–5 days. Two-piece baseplate: change every 3–5 days. Always change if you notice leakage, lifting edges, or skin discomfort — do not wait for your scheduled change day.
Caring for Your Peristomal Skin
- Size the barrier correctly — too large exposes skin, too small cuts into the stoma
- Use adhesive remover every time — never peel dry
- Avoid creams and lotions near the stoma unless designed for peristomal skin
- In Singapore's humid climate, consider a convex barrier if your stoma is flush or retracted
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I know if my ostomy bag is leaking?
A: Unusual odour, a warm or wet feeling under the barrier, or stinging around the stoma. Change immediately if you notice any of these signs.
Q: Can I shower with my ostomy bag on?
A: Yes. Modern ostomy pouches are water-resistant. Avoid prolonged submersion (baths, swimming) unless cleared by your nurse.
Q: My stoma bleeds slightly during cleaning — is this normal?
A: Minor spotting is common — the stoma has many small surface blood vessels. Significant bleeding from inside the stoma requires medical assessment.
Q: My skin is red and sore around my stoma — what should I do?
A: Check your barrier sizing. For mild redness, stoma powder can help. If skin is broken or not improving within 24–48 hours, consult your stoma care nurse.
Q: Where can I buy ostomy supplies in Singapore?
A: EMIS+ stocks authentic ostomy products from Coloplast and Convatec — delivered islandwide with discreet packaging. Our nurses can help you find the right products for your stoma type.
Shop EMIS+ Stoma Supplies
EMIS+ is Singapore's nurse-led medical supply store. We stock Coloplast SenSura Mio, Coloplast Assura, Convatec Natura, Convatec Esteem+, adhesive remover wipes, barrier rings, stoma powder, and accessories — all 100% authentic from authorised distributors. Islandwide delivery in Singapore and shipping across Asia.
This article is written by the EMIS+ nursing team for informational purposes. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always follow the guidance of your surgeon, stoma nurse, or healthcare provider.