Colostomy
A stoma connected to the large intestine (colon), allowing stool to pass into a stoma bag. Usually has soft or solid output.
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Understanding what a stoma is
If you need a stoma, it means your body needs a new way to pass stool or urine because of a health issue or surgery. Facing stoma surgery and understanding what a stoma is can feel overwhelming. However, with the right preparation and support, you can approach this important step with clarity and confidence. Here we will walk you through the basics, to help you and your loved ones feel informed and empowered.
A stoma is an opening on the body, just like your mouth or your nose. When a stoma is created during surgery, it becomes a small opening on the abdomen that allows part of the intestine or another organ to safely connect to the outside of the body. It's a medical solution to relieve pain, obstruction, or other complications, especially when these problems come from an illness or an injury. Depending on the condition, a stoma (also called an ostomy) may be temporary or permanent.
We will focus on the three main types of stoma that are used to exit waste from the body: colostomy, which uses the large intestine; ileostomy, which uses the small intestine; and urostomy, which lets urine drain from the urinary system.
This procedure is carried out under general anesthesia, ensuring you are completely unconscious. While the idea of surgery can feel scary, it’s important to know that this step is taken with great care and precision, always with the goal of improving your health and quality of life.
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Remember: you are not alone. This is a normal part of many people’s medical journey, and with time, care, and confidence, you can embrace your new lifestyle. Your stoma does not define you, it simply gives you a new beginning.
You can also share your journey with others through patient associations and support groups. Connecting with people who truly understand what you’re going through can bring encouragement, practical advice, and a powerful sense of belonging. Together, you’ll discover that living with a stoma is not something to face alone, but a path you can walk with a supportive community by your side.
A stoma is necessary when you are facing serious health conditions such asbowel or bladder cancer or Crohn’s disease - situations that can deeply affectdaily life and well-being. While the idea of living with a stoma can make you feeloverwhelmed at first, many people have the experience that with the right supportand care, they can continue to live fully and confidently, rebuilding their lives.
A stoma can be temporary or permanent, depending on the medical condition and the type of surgery you had.
A temporary stoma allows healing after surgery or inflammation. It’s usually reversible, meaning the bowel can be reconnected later and it's back to normal function. You may require a temporary colostomy or ileostomy if part of your colon needs time to heal after injury, trauma or an underlying disease. In this case, the outflow of the digestive tract is preserved.
A permanent stoma is needed when bowel or bladder function cannot be restored. Urostomies are typically permanent due to bladder removal or dysfunction.
A stoma appears as a small, round, pink or red opening on the abdomen. It’s soft,moist and painless to touch. Because it lacks a sphincter muscle, you can't controlhow waste exits the stoma that is then collected in a stoma pouch. Though it maylook strange at first, a stoma is a carefully created surgical opening designed tosupport your health and comfort.
There are three main types of stoma, depending on the medical condition and thepart of the body involved. Each type has its own function and helps you to feelbetter, making sure your body works safely and smoothly.
Every stoma is different – just like you. Here are the three main stoma types:
A stoma connected to the large intestine (colon), allowing stool to pass into a stoma bag. Usually has soft or solid output.
A stoma connected to the small intestine (ileum), allowing stool to pass into a stoma bag. Usually has more liquid output.
A stoma connected to the urinary system, allowing urine to drain into a stoma bag.
Before surgery, you’ll meet with your surgeon and a stoma nurse and they will explain the type of surgery you will be having and how to use stoma care products.
Additionally, your stoma nurse will also help choose the best location for your stoma based on your body shape, clothing habits, and mobility. The nurse will mark the most suitable spot on your abdomen to avoid skin folds or scars, reduce complications and make stoma care easier. This is done while you're sitting, standing, and lying down to find the most comfortable and practical position.
This consultation isn’t just about medical preparation, it’s also a chance to build trust and empathy with the people who will support you through your journey.
After surgery, you’ll wake up in a recovery room where medical staff will closely monitor your condition to ensure everything is progressing as expected. You mayhave drains, IVs and a catheter. Your stoma will be swollen initially and covered with a transparent pouch. It’s very common to feel tired, overwhelmed, or emotional. Healing is a gradual process and it’s important to be patient with yourself.
Whether temporary or permanent, a stoma can help restore your health and open the door to a full and confident life with renewed strength.
A stoma is not a disease, it’s a medical solution. It is created to help your body exit stool or urine when the natural route is no longer possible.
The stoma itself has no nerve endings, so it doesn’t hurt to touch it. However, you may experience discomfort around the area of the stoma during recovery or if complications arise.
Only if you choose to show it. Stomas are typically covered by a discreet pouch and hidden under your clothes. Most people won’t notice unless you tell them.
Some stomas are temporary and can be reversed once healing is complete. Others are permanent, depending on the reason your stoma was created.
Instead of passing stool or urine through the rectum or bladder, waste exits through the stoma opening in your abdomen into a pouch. You no longer use the toilet in the traditional way, but you can take care of your stoma in the bathroom.
In the first weeks after stoma surgery, your abdomen often changes shape. Swelling decreases, scars begin to heal, and your stoma may change in shape or size. These natural changes can affect how well your stoma products fit your skin.
Yes. Most women with a stoma can have a healthy pregnancy. As the abdomen changes, stoma care may need adjustments. Regular check-ups with a stoma nurse and a trusted gynecologist are essential to manage the stoma and plan for delivery, whether vaginal or C-section.
Pack comfortable, loose-fitting clothes, personal hygiene items and any medical documents or insurance information. If you’ve already met with a stoma nurse, they may suggest bringing specific supplies or a notebook to write down questions and care tips. Some patients also find it helpful to bring a small pillow for abdominal support when coughing or moving.
In most cases, you can continue eating normally until the day before surgery, unless your doctor gives specific instructions. You may be asked to follow a low-fiber diet or do a bowel prep to clear your intestines. Always follow your surgeon’s pre-op dietary guidelines carefully.
Yes, you’ll need basic ostomy supplies such as pouches, skin barriers (flanges or wafers), adhesive remover wipes, and skin protection products. Your hospital will usually provide an initial supply, and your stoma nurse will help you understand what you need and how to order it. It’s a good idea to keep a small stock at home and learn how to store and organize your supplies for easy access.
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