Hi, everyone! I have been reading a lot of the posts and have seen that several are having problems with the skin around the stoma. I'm certainly not an expert, but I've had my stoma for 16 years and have never had a skin problem, so I thought I'd let you know what I do and maybe it could help some of you.
First, I cut out my own wafers. I made a template or form out of thin cardboard the shape of a donut. (I actually used the cardboard from the box of pouches.) I slipped it over my stoma, like you do your wafer, to make sure there was no more that 1/8 inch space between the stoma and the form. (You don't want space for the output to ooze through and burn your skin.) I made it as close as I could without touching the stoma. When I had that completed, I made several tracings of it so, when one wears out from usage, I've got another one. (I even carry one in my wallet!) I then use this form to trace the opening on the back of my wafer and then cut it out.
I run a bead of Stomahesive Paste around the opening I cut out.
Next, after thoroughly cleaning the skin with soap and water, I completely dry the skin using the low setting on my hair dryer. I found that drying my skin with a towel was irritating to my skin. Then I apply Smith and Nephew Skin Barrier. It's an alcohol based product that protects the skin. I'm allergic to adhesive and I needed a product like that to protect my skin. It's not expensive either. Then I use my hair dryer again and make sure my skin is dry befor applying my wafer.
Lastly, I change my appliance every four days. When I leave it longer, I can start to feel a little discomfort and, when I remove the wafer, I can see that it has really broken down and I can see the clear plastic mold...not good!
I hope this can help some of you. I'm sure others have some great ideas also. I only know that I never have to remove the appliance or pouch when I shower. I only remove it when changing my appliance.
Sherrine