Why Soft Convex Barrier for Gentle Stoma Support

Traditional flat barriers struggle to maintain secure seals around flush or slightly recessed stomas—the lack of elevation allows output to track laterally under the adhesive edge rather than flowing into the pouch, creating frequent leaks and peristomal skin damage. Firm convex barriers provide strong elevation but can cause discomfort, pressure injuries on the stoma, or pain for patients with sensitive abdomens. The soft convex design offers a middle solution: gentle, flexible convexity that creates subtle elevation to direct output into the pouch without rigid pressure against the stoma or surrounding tissue. This makes soft convex particularly valuable for patients who need mild support but cannot tolerate aggressive convexity—those with tender post-operative tissue, sensitive peristomal skin, or discomfort from previous firm convex use. The pre-cut 28 mm opening eliminates measuring with stoma templates and cutting with scissors, reducing application time and preventing sizing errors that cause either stoma constriction (too small) or skin exposure (too large). The integrated full-circle filter prevents pouch ballooning from intestinal gas, which creates visible bulk under clothing and can compromise barrier adhesion by pulling on the seal.

Key Features

• Soft convex barrier: gentle, flexible convexity for flush or slightly recessed stomas
• Pre-cut 28 mm opening: ready-to-use sizing eliminates measuring and cutting
• One-piece closed system: integrated barrier and pouch for simplified application
• Full-circle integrated filter: advanced deodorizing filter reduces ballooning and odor
• Flexible adhesive: secure, skin-friendly barrier moves with body contours
• Neutral grey fabric-like covering: discreet, quiet textile surface
• Soft comfort layer: gentle against skin during wear
• Latex-free construction: safe for latex-sensitive users
• Opaque material: contents not visible through pouch
• Box of 10 pouches: convenient week-plus supply

Benefits

• Gentle stoma support: soft convexity provides elevation without excessive pressure
• Eliminates cutting errors: pre-cut opening ensures consistent, accurate fit
• Reduces gas ballooning: filter releases gas while trapping odor inside pouch
• Simplified application: one-piece closed design requires no clipping or folding
• Discreet wear: neutral grey textile covering quiet and low-profile under clothing
• Reliable seal: convex shape maintains contact around flush stomas

Clinical Applications

✓ Flush colostomy stomas: post-operative stomas that sit level with abdominal surface
✓ Slightly recessed stomas: mild retraction requiring gentle elevation support
✓ Soft peristomal tissue: areas with skin laxity benefiting from mild convex support
✓ Post-operative sensitivity: patients who find firm convex barriers uncomfortable
✓ Formed stool management: colostomy output with predictable, solid consistency
✓ Active lifestyle users: individuals needing secure adhesion during movement
✓ Gas management needs: patients experiencing pouch ballooning issues

Usage & Application

Pre-Application Assessment:

1. Verify that 28 mm is the correct size for your stoma:
   • Measure stoma diameter using a measuring guide
   • The opening should clear the stoma by approximately 1-2 mm on all sides
   • If your stoma is significantly smaller or larger than 28 mm, select a different size
2. Assess whether soft convex is appropriate:
   • Soft convex works best for flush or slightly recessed stomas
   • If your stoma protrudes significantly, flat barriers may be more comfortable
   • Consult your ostomy nurse if unsure about barrier selection

Preparation:

1. Gather supplies: new pouch, washcloth or ostomy wipes, towel, disposal bag, barrier accessories if needed
2. Empty your current pouch before removal if it contains output
3. Work in a comfortable, well-lit area (bathroom is typically most convenient)
4. Have a mirror available if needed for visibility

Removing Old Pouch:

1. Support your skin with one hand while gently lifting a barrier edge with the other
2. Peel slowly from top to bottom, supporting the skin as you go
3. If the barrier is difficult to remove, use adhesive remover wipes
4. Dispose of the used pouch in a sealed disposal bag

Skin Cleansing:

1. Gently cleanse the peristomal skin with warm water and soft washcloth or ostomy wipes
2. Remove any residual adhesive using adhesive remover wipes if needed
3. Pat the area completely dry—moisture prevents proper barrier adhesion
4. Inspect the stoma and surrounding skin:
   • Stoma should be pink/red and moist (normal appearance)
   • Check for skin irritation, redness, or breakdown
   • Note any changes in stoma size, shape, or output consistency

Application Procedure:

1. Remove the new Coloplast pouch from packaging
2. Peel away the protective backing from the adhesive barrier
3. Examine the pre-cut 28 mm opening—ensure it's clean and undamaged
4. Warm the barrier slightly by holding between your hands for 30-60 seconds (improves adhesion)

Positioning:

1. Stand or recline in your preferred application position
2. If standing, some users find elevating one foot on toilet or stool helpful
3. Center the 28 mm opening over your stoma—should clear the stoma by 1-2 mm on all sides
4. The soft convex portion will face your abdomen, creating gentle inward pressure

Securing the Barrier:

1. When properly aligned, press the center of the barrier firmly against your skin
2. The soft convex shape will create a mild depression around the stoma
3. Using firm, even pressure, smooth the barrier outward from the center in all directions
4. Pay special attention to the edges—press firmly to ensure complete adhesion
5. For optimal adhesion, hold your hand over the barrier for 60-90 seconds (body heat activates adhesive)
6. Run your finger around the entire perimeter to ensure no lifted edges

Checking the Seal:

1. Gently tug on the pouch to verify secure adhesion—should not lift or peel
2. Check that the stoma sits comfortably within the opening without compression
3. Ensure no gaps between barrier edge and skin where output could track
4. Verify the pouch hangs naturally without pulling or twisting
5. The soft convex pressure should feel supportive but never painful

Filter Function:

1. The integrated filter is located at the top or side of the pouch
2. As intestinal gas accumulates, it passes through the filter automatically
3. The filter releases gas while neutralizing odor with activated charcoal
4. You should notice reduced pouch ballooning compared to non-filtered pouches
5. The filter works continuously—no manual venting required

Throughout Wear Time:

1. Check the barrier edges periodically—if lifting begins, remove and replace
2. Monitor for skin irritation or discomfort around the barrier edge
3. The soft convex pressure should remain comfortable throughout wear
4. If the filter becomes saturated (from moisture or liquid output), effectiveness may decrease
5. Closed pouches are designed for single use—do not empty and reuse

Wear Time Guidelines:

1. Closed pouches are typically changed 1-2 times daily
2. Change schedule depends on output volume and consistency:
   • Low-output colostomies: once daily (often morning routine)
   • Moderate-output: twice daily
   • Adjust timing to match your bowel pattern
3. Replace the entire system with each pouch change
4. Do not attempt to empty closed pouches—they're designed for disposal when full

Removal:

1. When the pouch contains output and needs changing, remove the entire system
2. Support your skin with one hand while gently lifting a barrier edge
3. Peel slowly from top to bottom, supporting the skin as you go
4. The soft convex barrier is gentler to remove than firm convex
5. Dispose in a sealed disposal bag
6. Cleanse skin and repeat application process with fresh pouch

Disposal:

1. Roll or fold the used pouch to contain output
2. Place in an opaque disposal bag (ostomy disposal bags available)
3. Seal the bag and dispose in household trash
4. Never flush ostomy pouches down toilets
5. For added discretion, use scented disposal bags

Troubleshooting Tips:

• If output leaks under the barrier despite soft convex, you may need firmer convexity (consult ostomy nurse)
• If the 28 mm opening feels too tight (stoma appears compressed), try the next size up
• If the opening is too large (gap >2-3 mm around stoma), try the next size down or add barrier paste/rings
• If the soft convex pressure causes discomfort, the profile may still be too aggressive—try flat barriers
• If adhesion is poor, ensure skin is completely dry before application and use barrier film wipes
• If the filter seems ineffective, check that it's not covered by clothing or pressed against skin
• If ballooning continues, the filter may be saturated—consider changing pouch more frequently

Maximizing Filter Performance:

1. Avoid covering the filter with tape or clothing
2. Don't press the pouch flat against your body—allow slight space for gas release
3. If liquid output contacts the filter, it may become less effective
4. For ileostomies with liquid output, drainable pouches may work better than closed
5. Diet affects gas production—identify and limit gas-producing foods if ballooning is problematic

Skin Protection Tips:

1. Use barrier film wipes on peristomal skin before applying barrier (optional but recommended)
2. If skin folds create gaps, use barrier paste or strips to fill irregularities
3. For persistent leakage, convex inserts or barrier rings can enhance seal
4. Monitor skin condition closely—any convex barrier requires vigilant skin assessment
5. If redness or pressure marks develop, reduce wear time or switch to flat barrier

When to Contact Your Ostomy Nurse:

• Persistent leakage despite proper application technique
• Skin irritation, breakdown, or ulceration around the stoma
• Changes in stoma size, color, or appearance
• Stoma recession or prolapse
• Pain or discomfort from the soft convex barrier
• Difficulty achieving secure seal
• Questions about sizing or barrier selection

Technical Specifications

• Product Name: Coloplast One-Piece Closed Pouch with Soft Convex Barrier
• Brand: Coloplast
• System Type: One-piece (integrated barrier and pouch)
• Pouch Style: Closed (non-drainable)
• Stoma Type: Colostomy (formed stool)
• Barrier Profile: Soft convex (gentle, flexible convexity)
• Convexity Type: Soft/light pressure (less rigid than firm convex)
• Opening Type: Pre-cut (no cutting required)
• Opening Size: 28 mm (approximately 1-1/8 inch)
• Filter: Integrated full-circle deodorizing filter with activated charcoal
• Filter Function: Gas release with odor neutralization
• Pouch Material: Neutral grey textile-like covering (fabric feel)
• Opacity: Opaque (contents not visible)
• Adhesive: Flexible, skin-friendly barrier adhesive
• Comfort Layer: Soft material against skin
• Latex Content: Latex-free
• Wear Time: Typically 24-48 hours (change 1-2 times daily)
• Intended Use: Single use, disposable
• Packaging: Box of 10 pouches
• Sterility: Non-sterile
• Color: Neutral grey
• Size Range: 28 mm opening (other sizes available in separate SKUs)
• Stoma Indication: Flush, slightly recessed, or retracted stomas requiring gentle support
• Output Type: Formed stool (colostomy)
• Storage: Store at room temperature in dry location
• Shelf Life: Check package expiration date