Ostomy Rings- When to use

Written By Kim Hoggard

WHEN TO USE AN OSTOMY RING

A Quick Guide to Better Fit, Fewer Leaks & Healthier Skin

🟠 What is an Ostomy Ring?

An ostomy ring is a soft, moldable ring that creates a secure seal around your stoma. It helps fill gaps and uneven areas to prevent leaks and protect skin. Different brands market them with different names such as seals, barrier rings and protective rings.

While this accessory product is not necessary for everyone, many people with ostomies use rings to reduce leaks, protect their peristomal skin and improve overall confidence in wearing a pouching system.

✅ You May Benefit from an Ostomy Ring If...

 

💧 You're Experiencing Leaks

Output leaking under the skin barrier, frequent changes (short wear time) and unexpected pouch failures are incredibly frustrating. Rings creates a better seal around the stoma preventing stool from leaking under the skin barrier.

🔄 Your Skin Surface Is Uneven

An ostomy ring can help fill, skin folds, wrinkles, creases, scars and indentations to the peristomal skin. This creates a smoother surface for your skin barrier to adhere to.

⬇️ Your Stoma Is Flush or Retracted

An “ideal stoma” should protrude away from the body, just enough to act as a “spout”, directing output into the pouch. Stomas which are at skin level (flush) or retracted (below the skin) have a higher chance of leaks as the stool can seep under the skin barrier. Available in flat or convex shapes, rings can further enhance this stomal protrusion effect better channeling output into the pouch.

❤️ Your Skin Is Red, Sore, or Irritated

Repeated exposure to stool or urine can damage the skin around your stoma. This can range from a mild itch to weeping denuded skin (like a bad diaper rash or sunburn). Some rings are infused with ceramides or manuka honey to sooth the skin and support healing.

🌊 You Have a Liquid or High-Output Ostomy

Particularly helpful for output with liquid consistency and/or high output, such as urostomies and ileostomies. The rings swell slightly when exposed to the output, helping maintain a secure seal and absorbing the extra moisture.

 

🏃 You're Active or Travelling

Movement and sweat can cause the skin barrier to lift. The increased adhesion and absorbency of a ring can offset this, reducing anxiety about leaks and increasing wear time. Peace of mind while travelling, chasing around kids or working are why many people opt into using a ring.

HOW TO APPLY AN OSTOMY RING

1️⃣ Clean & Dry

Ensure the skin around the stoma is clean and completely dry.

2️⃣ Shape the Ring

Stretch or mold the ring to fit snugly around your stoma.

3️⃣ Place the Ring

Apply directly to the skin or to the back of your wafer.

4️⃣ Apply Your Appliance

Position the skin barrier over the ring.

5️⃣ Press & Seal

Hold and apply gentle pressure for several seconds to improve adhesion.

👩‍⚕️ Talk to an Ostomy Nurse

If you're experiencing:

  • Frequent leaks

  • Skin irritation

  • Difficulty achieving a good seal

  • Short wear time

A NSWOC (Nurse Specialized in Wound, Ostomy and Continence) can help determine whether an ostomy ring is right for you.

Kim Hoggard