Living with stoma living day to day
Informed by recognized medical guidance
Overview
A stoma is a surgically created opening on your abdomen that allows waste (urine or stool) to leave your body into a bag worn on the outside. This is often needed after part of the bowel or bladder is removed. It is not a disease itself, but a new way of life after surgery.
Key facts
- A stoma is usually pink or red, moist, and painless — like the inside of your mouth.
- You will wear a pouch (bag) outside your body to collect waste, and you can change it yourself.
- With practice and support, most people return to work, travel, swimming, and many other activities.
Yes, stomas are more common than most people think. In the UK, for example, thousands of people have a stoma, and many live full, active lives.
Anyone may need a stoma at any age, from babies to older adults. It is often part of treatment for conditions like bowel cancer, inflammatory bowel disease, bladder cancer, or injury.
Symptoms
- Severe abdominal pain with no stoma output (possible blockage)
- The stoma becomes very dark, purple, or blue (sign of poor blood flow)
- Uncontrollable bleeding from the stoma
- ⚠The stoma looks very swollen or bulges a lot
- ⚠Fever with abdominal pain or vomiting
- ⚠Skin around the stoma becomes raw, infected, or extremely painful
Common symptoms
- Leakage from the pouch
- Skin irritation around the stoma
- Gas or odour
- Blockage (decreased output, cramping, swelling)
Symptoms in children
- Fear of the pouch showing at school
- Skin irritation from the pouch adhesive
- Managing clothing and activities
Symptoms in older adults
- Falls or dexterity issues making pouch changes harder
- Sensitive or fragile skin
- Needing extra help with supplies and disposal
Causes
Main causes
- Surgery for bowel cancer or bladder cancer
- Inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis)
- Trauma or injury to the abdomen
- Birth defects affecting the bowel or bladder
Risk factors
- A diagnosis that requires removing part of the bowel or bladder
- Emergency surgery or complications from other abdominal surgery
When to see a doctor
See a doctor urgently if:
- Signs of blockage: no output for several hours with cramping and swelling
- Stoma changes colour or falls in or protrudes excessively
- Excessive bleeding from the stoma or pouch
Book a routine appointment if:
- Persistent skin irritation or leakage that doesn't improve with pouch care changes
- Changes in stoma size or shape
- Ask for a review with a stoma nurse if you have questions or need new supplies
Diagnosis
A stoma is created during surgery. Before surgery, your healthcare team will explain why it's needed and mark the best spot on your abdomen. After surgery, a stoma nurse will help you learn to care for it.
Tests that may be done
- Imaging scans (like CT or MRI) and colonoscopy to plan the surgery
- Blood tests to check your overall health
- Tissue biopsy to confirm the underlying condition
What to expect at your appointment
After surgery, you will stay in hospital for several days. A stoma nurse will teach you how to change the pouch, clean the area, and spot problems. You will start with a clear liquid diet and gradually return to normal food.
Treatment
The stoma itself is not treated separately — it is the new way your body works. Your focus is on managing the pouch, protecting your skin, and adjusting your diet and habits. Ongoing care involves choosing the right pouch system and learning to prevent problems.
Self-care at home
- Empty your pouch when it is about one-third to half full to prevent leaks.
- Clean the skin around the stoma with plain water and dry it well before applying a new pouch.
- Cut the pouch opening to the correct size — your stoma will change size over the first few months.
- Use skin barrier products, such as wipes or paste, to protect the area if your skin is sore.
Medical treatments
Your healthcare team may prescribe skin creams for irritation, medications to slow or thicken output, or treatments for underlying disease. Never start any new medicine without talking to your doctor or stoma nurse. Some medications can affect your stoma output or cause dehydration.
When is surgery considered?
Surgery is what creates the stoma. In some cases, a stoma may be temporary and closed later with another operation. For others, the stoma is permanent. Your surgeon will explain whether reversal is possible in your situation.
Living with this condition
Living with a stoma means learning a new routine. Most people empty their pouch 4 to 8 times a day, and change it every 1 to 3 days. You can shower with or without the pouch. Wear loose clothing or specially designed underwear, and keep extra supplies with you when you go out.
Lifestyle tips
- You can swim, travel, and exercise after your stoma has healed and with your doctor's OK.
- Protect the stoma from heavy lifting that might cause a hernia; use support belts if advised.
- You can still have close relationships, intimacy, and sexual activity. Talk openly with your partner and ask for counselling if needed.
Diet and exercise
Eat regular meals and chew food well. Drink plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration. Eat less gas-producing food (like beans, cabbage, and fizzy drinks) if bloating bothers you. Be careful with high-fibre foods like nuts and popcorn, especially if you have an ileostomy or colostomy. Gradually introduce new foods one at a time. Start with gentle exercise like walking; discuss more strenuous activities with your healthcare team.
Mental health and emotional wellbeing
It's normal to feel sad, anxious, embarrassed, or angry after stoma surgery. These feelings usually improve over time, especially with support from family, friends, and a stoma nurse. If you feel depressed or overwhelmed, tell your doctor or nurse. Asking for help is a sign of strength.
Prevention
A stoma itself is not a disease, so it can't be prevented. However, some conditions that lead to a stoma, such as bowel cancer, can be caught early through screening. Getting the right care can reduce complications.
Vaccines
There are no vaccines for stoma care, but keeping up with routine vaccinations, like flu and COVID-19, is recommended to protect your overall health.
Screening programmes
Regular screening for bowel cancer, when offered, can detect problems early and sometimes avoid the need for a stoma. Ask your healthcare provider about what screening is right for you.
Complications
If left untreated
- Skin breakdown and infection around the stoma
- Blockage of the stoma causing severe pain, vomiting, and swelling
- Dehydration from high output
- Parastomal hernia (a bulge near the stoma) causing discomfort or obstruction
Long-term outlook
Most people with a stoma live full and active lives. The first few weeks are the hardest, but with education, practice, and support, managing your stoma becomes second nature. Many people return to work, travel, sports, and hobbies. You are not alone — healthcare teams and support communities are there to help you every step of the way.
Find support
External links open third-party websites. Ruqelo Health is not responsible for external content. Listing an organisation does not imply endorsement.
Always verify with your doctor
Health guidelines vary by country and region. The information in this article is based on international clinical guidelines but may not reflect the specific guidelines, medications, or practices in your country. Always discuss your health concerns with your own doctor or healthcare provider, and refer to your local national health guidelines where available.
Important notice This information is for educational purposes only. It does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider about your specific situation. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency services immediately.
Related conditions
Sources and guidance
This article is educational and is prepared with reference to recognized health information and clinical guidance sources where available. Specific source links may vary by topic.
Last updated: July 31, 2026
Educational note: This information is for education only and is not a diagnosis.
Use it to support, not replace, advice from a licensed clinician.
If symptoms are severe, worsening, or urgent, call your local emergency number or seek emergency care.