What Ostomy Supplies Do You Need?
After stoma surgery (colostomy, ileostomy, or urostomy), you’ll need a reliable supply system. This guide covers everything from pouching systems to accessories, so you know exactly what to order.
The Pouching System
Your pouching system is the foundation of ostomy care. It consists of two main components:
Skin Barrier (Wafer/Flange)
The adhesive piece that sticks to your skin around the stoma. It protects your skin from stoma output and provides the base for the pouch.
- Flat barriers: For stomas that protrude above skin level
- Convex barriers: For flush or retracted stomas — provides gentle pressure to help the stoma protrude
- Cut-to-fit: You cut the opening to match your stoma size (good for new stomas that may change size)
- Pre-cut: Opening is already cut to a standard size (convenient once your stoma stabilizes)
- Moldable: Flexible ring you shape with your fingers (no cutting, good seal)
Pouch
The bag that collects stoma output. Two main types:
- Drainable: Has a clip or spout at the bottom. Empty 4-6 times daily. Best for ileostomies and colostomies with liquid output.
- Closed: Sealed — remove and discard when full. Best for colostomies with formed output. Changed 1-3 times daily.
One-Piece vs. Two-Piece Systems
| Feature | One-Piece | Two-Piece |
|---|---|---|
| Profile | Lower, more discreet | Slightly bulkier |
| Convenience | Quick — one step | Can change pouch without removing barrier |
| Skin impact | Full change each time | Less adhesive removal — gentler on skin |
| Best for | Active lifestyles, discretion | Sensitive skin, frequent changes |
Essential Accessories
Barrier Rings / Seals
Moldable rings that fill gaps between the stoma and the skin barrier. Prevent leaks. Brands: Coloplast Brava, Hollister Adapt.
Adhesive Remover
Sprays or wipes that dissolve adhesive painlessly. Essential for sensitive skin. Never pull the barrier off dry.
Skin Prep / Barrier Wipes
Applied before the barrier to protect skin and improve adhesion. Creates a protective film. Brands: Hollister, 3M Cavilon.
Stoma Powder
Absorbs moisture from irritated skin so the barrier can stick. Sprinkle on red/weeping skin, brush off excess, apply barrier wipe, then pouch.
Deodorants
Drops or sprays that neutralize pouch odour. Add a few drops inside the pouch after emptying.
Pouch Covers
Fabric covers that go over the pouch for comfort against skin. Absorb sweat and reduce noise.
Belt
Elastic belt that clips to the pouch flange for extra security during activity or sleep.
Top Ostomy Brands in Canada
- Coloplast — SenSura, Brava accessories, known for moldable barriers
- Hollister — New Image, Adapt accessories, excellent skin-friendly products
- ConvaTec — Natura, Stomahesive, strong adhesion in humid conditions
How Often to Reorder
Typical monthly supplies for most ostomates:
- Pouches: 20-30 (drainable) or 30-60 (closed)
- Skin barriers: 8-10 (one-piece) or 4-8 (two-piece, barriers last longer)
- Barrier rings: 8-10
- Adhesive remover wipes: 30
- Skin prep wipes: 30
Insurance and Funding
Most provincial health plans in Canada cover some or all ostomy supplies:
- Ontario (ADP): Covers a set monthly allowance
- Quebec (RAMQ): Covers most supplies with prescription
- Alberta (AADL): Covers up to a set annual amount
- Private insurance: Most extended health plans cover 80-100%
Ask your ostomy nurse or stoma care specialist about funding in your province.
Shop Ostomy Supplies at FinalMedic
We carry 496 ostomy products from Coloplast, Hollister, ConvaTec, and more. Pouches, skin barriers, accessories, and everything you need — all with free shipping across Canada.
Need help choosing the right system? Contact us at info@finalmedic.ca.