Convatec Reported Global Ostomy Care Challenges
New international research highlights widespread struggles with leakage and skin health among ostomy patients.
Updated on Oct. 6, 2026 in Sex Life
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Convatec has released an international report documenting the persistent challenges of leakage and peristomal skin issues. The survey reveals that a majority of patients experience leakage and avoid daily activities due to these concerns.
Why it matters
The study highlights a critical gap in the management of peristomal skin health, where leakage often creates a cycle of damage that weakens adhesion. Understanding this cycle is essential for improving quality of life for the estimated 13.5 million people living with a stoma worldwide.
The survey of 1,841 patients and 431 healthcare professionals found that nearly 40% of patients dealt with peristomal skin problems in the last year. These figures represent a significant segment of the 13.5 million people worldwide living with a stoma.
The players
Convatec
This global medical products and technologies company serves patients in 90 countries and employs approximately 10,000 colleagues.
The details
The research identifies a recurring cycle where leakage exposes sensitive skin to moisture, leading to skin damage that further compromises the seal of the ostomy appliance. As a result of these physical risks and related anxieties, more than half of surveyed patients report avoiding daily activities.
Timeline
The survey research was conducted during 2026.
Convatec released the report on October 6, 2026.
Culture Shift
This research reflects a growing shift in the medical industry toward prioritizing patient-reported lifestyle outcomes over purely clinical measurements. By documenting how physical leakage impacts daily social participation, the report moves the focus toward holistic long-term care management.
Patients dealing with these issues may find that addressing the cycle of skin damage and adhesion is vital to regaining the confidence needed for daily activities. Those experiencing frequent leakage are encouraged to discuss these specific physical concerns with their healthcare provider to evaluate appliance fit and skin protection routines.
The takeaway
Patients who experience persistent leakage should not view it as a permanent limitation, as identifying the underlying skin health cycle is often the first step toward better management. Healthcare providers should focus on addressing both the physical seal of the device and the patient's psychological concerns to improve overall daily function.
Further reading
Learn more about health and intimacy in our Sex Life section.
More information
Access the full findings in the Rethinking leakage in ostomy care report.
Source note: This article includes information reported by AFP.
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