Some common issues individuals may experience with their colostomies and ileostomies include ballooning and odour. Ballooning involves gas building up in the pouch, which may make the pouch more visible under clothes and can feel uncomfortable. While not always necessary, ostomy pouch filters are an option that can address both of these issues. An ostomy pouch filter is usually a small charcoal filter that’s built into the pouch or added to the pouch with a sticker.

Advantages

• They allow gas to slowly escape, so that your pouch doesn’t bulge under clothes
  • While effective, filters may not always completely eliminate ballooning, especially with high-gas foods
• They use activated charcoal to help neutralize odours.
• They can help your pouch stay secure, as less ballooning can help with stress on your pouch seal
• Less ballooning can help your pouch stay more discreet, which can help boost your overall confidence

What kinds are there?

• Built-in filters: Pouches that already come with the filters included.
  • Filters generally last for the life of the pouch (usually 1-3 days).
  • Sometimes filters stop working before the pouch is ready to be changed — especially if output is very liquid or the filter gets wet. If that happens, you might notice ballooning or odor returning.

• Stick-on filters: Sticker filters that you peel, stick, and poke a small hole.
  • These are especially helpful if your favourite pouch doesn’t already have a filter.
  • Are usually replaced daily or every couple of days.

• Specialty pouches: Generally have extra features to enhance performance, such as anti-clog or slow-venting designs.

Do pouch filters leak?

You might be wondering if having a filter is like a hole that could allow the contents of your ostomy bag to leak through. Filters are uniquely designed with a water-repelling membrane, allowing gas to pass through, but stool and liquid can’t. Additionally, filters are placed near the top of your pouch, so gravity also assists with the flow of output. Some brands additionally add one-way valves for extra protection.

What are the little stickers that come with some pouches?

Filters can easily clog if they get wet (showers, swimming, or very liquid output). These stickers aren’t used to block stool–the filter already does that. They are instead meant to be a temporary waterproof cover for when you’re showering or swimming.

Tips

• Keep the filter at the top of the pouch.
• Use the waterproof stickers to protect the filter during showers, baths, and swimming.
• If ballooning or odour comes back, you might need to replace the pouch or the filter add on.
• Carry a spare filter if you’re out for a long day.

Products available in Canada

*Ostomy Canada does not endorse specific brands or products. The following are suggestions only.*

Built-in filters

• Coloplast, Hollister, and ConvaTec all carry various pouch options with integrated charcoal filters.
• Product titles usually integrate the word “filter” at the end of their names

Stick-on filters

• A common option for a separate stick-on filter option in Canada is the Coloplast Filtrodor

Specialty pouches (advanced filter designs)

• Coloplast, Hollister, and Convatec all carry pouch options with an advanced filter design

Do I need a pouch filter?

For many people, pouch filters are absolutely worth it and essential for their lives. They can reduce ballooning from gas, help your pouch fit better, aid with odour control, and even boost your confidence. But just like any product in ostomy care, what works best is different for everyone. It may be worth experimenting or checking in with your nurse specialized in wound, ostomy and continence care (NSWOC) or provider on which products may be right for you.

“Ostomy Bag” in Blog Featured Image is courtesy of Hollister Incorporated.

Source

By Erika Kana, RN, Content Writer, Ostomy Canada Marketing Team.