The doctors will determine when you are able to shower following surgery. Generally, your surgical wounds need to be sufficiently healed and you must be strong enough to stay upright during a shower. For many patients, their first shower is a sign of progress in their recovery.
After your laryngectomy, it is very important that you protect your stoma from water getting into it. The open stoma serves as a direct “pipeline” into the lungs. During showers, you can wear a special cover that is designed to keep water away from the stoma. Taking a bath is not generally recommended; however, should you choose to sit in a tub of water, be sure to keep the water level no higher than your navel.
After your laryngectomy, it is very important that you protect your stoma from water getting into it. The open stoma serves as a direct “pipeline” into the lungs. During showers, you can wear a special cover that is designed to keep water away from the stoma. Taking a bath is not generally recommended; however, should you choose to sit in a tub of water, be sure to keep the water level no higher than your navel.
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There are various products available to help you shower without water entering your stoma. In general, patients using an HME adhesive can most easily change out the HME cassette and insert the Shower Shield designed to fit into the adhesive. Without an adhesive, stoma cover/collars can be helpful as well. The SLP staff can assist you with options in this regard, but it is typically a matter of personal preference in terms of what works best for you and how comfortable you are using the device.
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