If you have a sigmoid or descending colostomy, you can train your color to empty it at a regular time every day. This process is referred to as irrigating. Your doctor is the person to tell you if you are a good candidate for this process.

What are the benefits of colostomy irrigation?

It’s mainly the matter of whether the colostomy irrigation is right for you. If it is, it is going to offer you several advantages.

• You can wear a small stoma cap or a low profile small pouch.
• You are not going to have to do frequent pouch changes.
• You will have a sense of freedom.

How does the colostomy irrigation work?

The process of colostomy irrigation is done with the help of a tool which is pretty similar to enema. It is placed in the stoma. The first irrigation will be done by the healthcare team. Then you will be taught about how to do it at home. Now let’s talk about the process of colostomy irrigation.

• You will have to allow one hour for the process of colostomy irrigation.
• The special irrigation equipment will be used to place water into your stoma.
• The equipment which is used during this process includes an irrigation bag, a sleeve, and a stoma cone.
• After the irrigation is done, you can either use a stoma cap or attach a one or two-piece closed pouch to protect the stoma.

You will be able to determine the exact timing of stoma irrigation with the help of your ostomy care nurse. You may have to do this irrigation process on daily basis but it should be a problem once the process becomes a part of your daily routine.

Is colostomy irrigation right for you?

Yes, you are going to have to be eligible for colostomy irrigation because it is not appropriate for everyone. You will certainly not get a recommendation for this procedure if you have a urostomy or ileostomy. Even if you have a colostomy, you are going to have to talk to your health physician to discuss about whether or not you can do this procedure on daily basis. A few things that need to be considered in this regard are as under.

• Remember, irrigation is a time commitment. It takes at least an hour.
• You need to have irrigation equipment. And there is a fixed time slot that you have to get in order to perform this irrigation.
• You are going to have to be persistent. It will take at least 8 weeks for your bowels to become properly regulated.
• Last but not the least; you will have to be physically capable of doing this procedure without any help.

Again, you need to ask your doctor or nurse whether or not you are a good candidate for colostomy irrigation.