Ostomy Belts & Wraps - Colostomy Support Belts

An ostomy belt attaches to the pouch belt adapters of ostomy and colostomy bags to hold them in place, especially if the abdomen is uneven or rounded. It is also recommended to wear one when performing colostomy irrigation to secure the irrigation sleeve. Ostomy belts are adjustable to varying degrees and usually come in a neutral color that is designed to go unnoticed under clothing. A colostomy support belt is wider and it is used to prevent hernia after surgery.

Wearing an ostomy belt while sleeping is one of the best ways to keep your ostomy bag in place while tossing and turning throughout the night. You can also wear a tighter shirt and tuck the colostomy bag into your pajama pants, provided your waistband does not strangle the pouch, but an ostomy bag belt is your best bet.

Ostomy wraps or bands are wider than regular ostomy belts and designed to both support and conceal ostomy and colostomy bags. For this purpose, they are fitted with one or two internal pockets that securely hold the ostomy bag in place while you go about your daily activities. They are very comfortable and come in various fabrics suitable for use under a variety of everyday clothing styles like activewear, swimwear, or loungewear while relaxing at home. Activewear ostomy wraps are made of moisture-wicking materials similar to athletic clothing, while swimwear ones are what you would expect of swimsuits, yoga pants, or cycling shorts. Standard ostomy wraps are made of soft knitted materials that keep you warm and cozy.

Ostomy wraps are designed to help you stay active with and without an ostomy bag attached. The most appropriate ostomy belt for swimming is a wide spandex or neoprene wrap with an internal pocket that holds and protects your ileostomy, colostomy, or urostomy bag while you enjoy water sports. These fabrics are resistant to sweat and suitable for both swimming pools and seawater.

Some ostomy belts adjust more than others, which is why each size specifies the range it is suitable for. Contrary to popular belief, you will not need your waist measurement to properly size an ostomy belt. Instead, using a pliable tape measure, you should measure around the body at the stoma level, while lying on your back. If you are going for a wider ostomy bag belt, measure just above and below the stoma and average the two measurements. If you find yourself in-between sizes, you can either go down a size for a tight fit or up for a looser one. Some ostomy support belts are tailored to work with the ostomy bag you are using, hence you should also check the flange diameter, which is either 2 3/8" or 2 3/4", and whether they are intended for the left or the right side of the body.

Ostomy belts are generally made of stretchable and durable fabrics that withstand washing without any issues. If you have a neoprene ostomy wrap, consider hand-washing it with mild detergent and cool or tepid water, as you would do with delicate clothing. To prevent excessive stretching, spandex ostomy belts also require hand-washing and lukewarm water.

AllegroMedical.com carries a wide range of ostomy supplies, including ostomy wraps and belts from high-quality manufacturers. Besides adjustable ostomy belts, you can also get ostomy and colostomy bags, irrigation supplies, ostomy bag deodorants, and other ostomy accessories that make living with an ostomy much easier and more comfortable.