When the bag needs changing, the entire system is removed and replaced.

Once the pouch is full, it is disposed of and replaced.

There are closed bags for both one- and two-piece ostomy systems.

concerned woman in bathroom

Peathegee Inc./Getty Images

Closed bags are ideal for people with solid rather than loose stools.

The bags are more often used in people with an ileostomy who tend to have loose or watery stool.

As with closed bags, drainable bags are available for both one- and two-piece systems.

Although these bags need to be changed more often, some people prefer them because they are discreet.

Mini-pouch are not only available as one- and two-piece systems but are also offered with closed or drainable bags.

They will also discuss which system is best suited to your lifestyle and personal preferences.

after you snag chosen the suitable system, the changing of the bag is a relatively straightforward process.

If you have a drainable bag, your care team will show you have to clean and reuse it.

For this reason, any poop on the skin should be removed immediately and washed with soap and water.

The bag should be changed when it is one-third full.

Any leakage should be cleaned immediately to avoid skin irritation.

Canadian Cancer Society.Colostomy and ileostomy.

doi:10.7759/cureus.46822

Murken DR, Bleier JIS.Ostomy-related complications.Clin Colon Rectal Surg.

2019;32:176-182. doi:10.1055/s-0038-1676995

MedlinePlus.Changing your ostomy pouch.

University of Chicago Medicine.How to use a pouching system after ostomy surgery.

Skin damage from incontinence.

Colostomy UK.Getting a good night’s sleep.

Colorectal Cancer Alliance.Nutrition with an ostomy.

University of California San Francisco.Ostomy education portal: preventing dehydration.