How to irrigate - It is absolutely essential that irrigating is done correctly so that the best results can be achieved. Many manufacturers of irrigation equipment include specific instructions on how to irrigate with the equipment.

1. An irrigation kit contains a bag for the irrigation water. This bag is attached to a tube which has a clamp to adjust water flow. Many colostomates use a plastic cone at the other end of the tube; this cone fits snugly against the stoma. An irrigating sleeve attaches over the stoma and is long enough to reach into the toilet. Clips allow the colostomate to close the irrigating sleeve after the irrigation process is partially complete.

2. With water-flow clamp on the tube closed, the colostomate fills the irrigation bag with a quart or so of lukewarm water and hangs the bag on a sturdy hook; the bottom of the bag will be at shoulder height when the colostomate sits on the toilet or on a chair facing the toilet The water-flow clamp is released slowly so that water runs through the tube to clear out any air. The clamp is closed again.

3. The colostomate sits on the toilet or a chair facing the toilet. The irrigating sleeve is placed over the stoma and held in place with a belt. The bottom end of the sleeve rests in the toilet.

4. The cone is held in place firmly against the stoma. If the colostomate uses an irrigating tip instead of the cone, the distance the tip is to be inserted into the ostomy is measured and marked on the tube beforehand; the tip is then covered with a non-greasy surgical lubricant and inserted into the stoma with a gentle, rolling motion. A dam (a flat, doughnut-shaped device that encircles the irrigating tube) is held against the stoma to keep water from escaping around the sides of the irrigation tip.

5. The water-flow clamp is opened slowly to allow a gentle stream of water to enter the stoma; it takes five to ten minutes for all the water to flow in. The colostomate then waits five or so more minutes before removing the cone or irrigating tip; this extra wait gives a more complete irrigation.

6. The cone or irrigating tip is removed from the ostomy. Most of the irrigation returns come in spurts into the toilet during the first few minutes. After this period, the colostomate can close the open ends of the irrigating sleeve and can attend to other business. When the irrigation is complete, the irrigating sleeve is removed, a soft pad or security pouch is applied over the stoma, and the irrigation equipment is cleaned.

People with colostomies do not have to follow any special diet. If they choose to wear a pouch continuously, all foods are allowed. Some foods may cause an increased fecal odor, but this odor will not be detectable through the new types of pouches made today. Also, there are special substances which can be put inside the pouch to neutralize fecal odor and, therefore, not only is there no odor through the pouch, but there is also no odor when the pouch is emptied-only people with colostomies can go to the bathroom and leave it "smelling like a rose."

However, if you choose to irrigate, you may need to follow some dietary restriction. Obviously, if you eat forty-seven prunes there will be some fecal spillage between irrigations. It is important for people who irrigate to keep the stool firm. Also, intestinal gas, instead of going into a pouch, would just pass through the small piece of gauze. Therefore, one may want to avoid gas-producing foods such as cabbage, onions, beans, and carbonated beverages.

Bear in mind, however, that most intestinal gas is swallowed air. Therefore, eating slowly and in a relaxed atmosphere is the best way to avoid having a lot of gas.