We are independent & ad-supported. We may earn a commission for purchases made through our links.
Advertiser Disclosure
Our website is an independent, advertising-supported platform. We provide our content free of charge to our readers, and to keep it that way, we rely on revenue generated through advertisements and affiliate partnerships. This means that when you click on certain links on our site and make a purchase, we may earn a commission. Learn more.
How We Make Money
We sustain our operations through affiliate commissions and advertising. If you click on an affiliate link and make a purchase, we may receive a commission from the merchant at no additional cost to you. We also display advertisements on our website, which help generate revenue to support our work and keep our content free for readers. Our editorial team operates independently of our advertising and affiliate partnerships to ensure that our content remains unbiased and focused on providing you with the best information and recommendations based on thorough research and honest evaluations. To remain transparent, we’ve provided a list of our current affiliate partners here.
Health

Our Promise to you

Founded in 2002, our company has been a trusted resource for readers seeking informative and engaging content. Our dedication to quality remains unwavering—and will never change. We follow a strict editorial policy, ensuring that our content is authored by highly qualified professionals and edited by subject matter experts. This guarantees that everything we publish is objective, accurate, and trustworthy.

Over the years, we've refined our approach to cover a wide range of topics, providing readers with reliable and practical advice to enhance their knowledge and skills. That's why millions of readers turn to us each year. Join us in celebrating the joy of learning, guided by standards you can trust.

What Is Ostomy Paste?

By Erin J. Hill
Updated: Feb 13, 2024
Views: 10,840
Share

Ostomy paste is a protective substance that is used on the skin surrounding a stoma. It acts as a barrier to prevent chafing and irritation when digestive juices and stomach acid finds its way out of the stoma opening. There are various brands, but they are typically thick in texture so they adhere to the skin more easily to create a longer lasting barrier.

Most ostomy paste comes in small tubes, much like that of toothpaste or diaper rash creams. They are thin and contain skin protectants to keep moisture away from skin. Some types contain ingredients like pectin and most contain some form of alcohol. This can cause stinging in some patients, so ostomy paste should be applied with care.

The use of ostomy paste is very important for many patients, since occasionally stomach acids and waste materials may escape and irritate the skin. This becomes more likely when the pouch becomes too full and begins to leak. Patients can help prevent contact of waste and acid by changing their pouches regularly and doing so carefully so spills occur. A doctor or nurse can give instructions on properly emptying the stoma pouch.

Ostomy paste may also be used to smooth the skin and help stoma covers and pouches lay down more evenly. This keeps them from being as noticeable underneath clothing and creates less embarrassment for patients. The paste should be applied directly surrounding the area where the tube is attached to the stoma.

Ostomy supplies should be changed regularly, so it is a good idea to purchase an ostomy paste that wipes away clean without leaving a residue. This allows the adhesive used to attach tubes and other supplies to work more effectively. Pastes that do leave a residue may have to be removed by scrubbing with soap and water.

Patients can buy ostomy paste in many professional pharmacies and medical supply stores; it is sold alongside other ostomy supplies. Brands may create pastes specifically to go well with their supplies, although it is generally not harmful to mix one paste variety with supplies from another brand. It is not advised that patients use paste or creams that are not intended for use around a stoma without first discussing it with their doctors. The cost of ostomy paste may be covered by insurance.

Share
WiseGeek is dedicated to providing accurate and trustworthy information. We carefully select reputable sources and employ a rigorous fact-checking process to maintain the highest standards. To learn more about our commitment to accuracy, read our editorial process.

Editors' Picks

Discussion Comments
Share
https://www.wise-geek.com/what-is-ostomy-paste.htm
Copy this link
WiseGeek, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.

WiseGeek, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.