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Learning about colostomy

How do I take care of my colostomy?

Learning about a colostomy is often the beginning of a new chapter, one that can feel unfamiliar at first, with questions that naturally arise along the way. Understanding what a colostomy is, how it works and affects daily routines and how to choose the right bag becomes easier with clear guidance. Here, you’ll find practical information to help you feel confident day by day.

What is a colostomy?

A colostomy is a small surgical opening created in yourlarge bowel (colon) and brought to the surface of yourbelly. This opening, called a stoma, becomes a new wayfor your stool to leave your body when it can’t pass throughthe rectum. Depending on your surgery and your condition,the surgeon may bring out a section from the lower part ofthe colon or from the upper part, which can influence thetype of output you may expect. A colostomy bag fits overthe stoma and collects your stool.

What makes a colostomy necessary?

A colostomy may be needed for different medical reasons, especially when the bowel or rectum is injured or can no longer work properly. It is often required in situations such as certain cancers, inflammatory bowel disease, or severe infections that prevent the intestine from healing on its own.

A colostomy is the most frequent type of stoma, more common than an ileostomy or a urostomy.

No matter the reason, a colostomy is a step taken to protect your health, support healing and help you live more comfortably and safely.

Temporary or permanent

A colostomy can be temporary or permanent, depending on the medical condition and the type of surgery you had.

How does a colostomy work and what sort of output can it have?

Living with a colostomy means your body works in a slightly different way, but it still functions normally. Depending on the stoma position and other factors, the stool consistency may vary from liquid or semi-liquid stool to formed stool.

How your body functions with a colostomy

Your digestive system continues to break down food just as before. The only change is the final step:

Stool leaves your body through the stoma.
You empty or change the stoma bag when needed.
You no longer use the toilet for bowel movements in the traditional way.

What colostomy output looks like

The appearance of your colostomy output depends on where your stoma is placed in the colon:

If your stoma is in the lower part of the colon, your stool will usually be well‑formed or firm, similar to before surgery.
If your stoma is in the upper part of the colon, your stool may be softer, mushy, or more watery, because the colon has had less time to adsorb water.

Your diet, hydration and activity level can also influence your stool, just like before you had a colostomy.

How do I choose the right bag for my colostomy?

There are different types of stoma bags in various shapes and sizes, so you can choose what feels most comfortable for your body and routine. With a colostomy, you’ll usually use a closed bag, but also a drainable one might work for you depending on your needs. The stool consistency can also affect your choice. Your stoma nurse will help you find the right option. B. Braun offers closed stoma bags with an ergonomic shape to enhance comfort and reduce leg friction and skin complications.

Learn more

Your colostomy can support you every day, helping you feel more secure, comfortable and ready to move forward.

A smiling confident woman with wavy hair, wearing a loose beige V-neck shirt and white pants, standing in a bedroom next to a wooden console table decorated with a ceramic vase and books.

Searching for the right colostomy bag?

Request your free stoma bag sample and find a fit that gives you comfort.

Questions you might have about colostomy

You should generally replace a closed one-piece stoma bag when it is about one‑third full. Many people find mornings, before or after a shower and ideally before breakfast, are a good time, as the bowel is usually less active. Depending on your bowel movements, you may need to change it once or twice a day. The frequency may also vary depending on the position of your colostomy. For personalized advice, always consult your stoma nurse.

With a two‑piece system, the baseplate generally stays in place for two to three days, depending on your skin condition and how well it adheres. The stoma bag is emptied or changed as needed. It’s important to regularly check the baseplate fit to prevent leakage. The ideal wear time may vary depending on the position of your colostomy and your individual needs. For tailored guidance, consult your stoma care nurse.

Yes, you can resume physical activity gradually. Follow your medical team’s recommendations. Remember that it is important to close your filter during water immersion (showering, bathing, water sports...), by applying an adhesive patch on the filter. These patches are included in the stoma bag box. Remember also to remove the patch when you are finished being in the water so that the filter will automatically start functioning again.

Good skin care includes ensuring the wafer fits properly, gently cleansing the skin and using appropriate ostomy skin‑care products to avoid irritation.