That sounds frustrating! It is possible that this pancaking will be temporary as your body adjusts to the new meds, so I'm crossing my fingers on that.

Posted by: @llholiday

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Is it possible that the barrier ring makes pancaking worse?

With most leaks, output will find the path of least resistance, which can sometimes be the barrier ring.

For me, pancaking (or thick output) comes with the chance that my stoma will suck in a little as it tries to pass output. This can cause leaks as the opening for my stoma is no longer sticking out from the hole on the wafer.

You won't notice it happening unless you've got a clear bag on, but I always try to be extra cautious when I've got thick output and pancaking, just to keep an eye on that.

Sorry to hear of your pancaking challenges. Medications can certainly change the consistency of the output. Is there an alternate medication the doctor can prescribe that might not cause the thick stool?  You may want to ask your doctor or pharmacist. 

I have few options left and have hopes for this new medication, which for the past week seems so far so good. Hoping and praying that continues - so, must be thankful and find ways to deal with this annoying increase in pancaking. 

One thing I am thinking is to use just half of a barrier ring and work it into a really flattened out circle, which would keep it below my stoma, which does retract when it is active. I know the Adapt rings come in a “Slim” size but for now could work with the ones I have on hand.

And it is certainly possible that my body chemistry will adjust.

i usually can tell when pancaking is starting, partially rinsing the bag right away can help.   loosing weight around your middle restricts how far your stoma will pull inward, under the flange.   the best solution is finding food that keeps output thin or moving faster.   i found cabbage soup works well.

I love pancakes but pancaking is annoying for sure. I experience the build up around the ring and if i keep my appliance on too long then the seal will begin to fail and stool gets in behind.