Ostomy FAQs

In this article, we will discuss some frequently asked questions about ostomies.

What is an ostomy?

An ostomy is a surgical procedure aimed at allowing the gastrointestinal or urinary to expel wastes after their respective excretory points become nonfunctional or diseased. This procedure results in the creation of a diversion that reroutes the passage of wastes away from the affected part of the tract. It means that you will no longer be able to expel your urine or feces through the urethra or anus.

The point from where waste materials pass out is known as the stoma. You will have to wear an ostomy pouch over the stoma to collect your stool or urine. You can empty that bag at your convenience.

While the location of the stoma can vary, it is always located on the abdomen.

What does a stoma look like?

A stoma is a small protrusion sticking out on the abdomen. It is a part of the bowel. Generally, it looks moist and pink or red. It may protrude a little or sink towards the surface of the abdominal skin.

If you notice excessive bleeding or change in colors in the stoma, see your physician as soon as you can.

Right after surgery, a stoma is usually swollen. This swelling subsides with time. Generally, it takes six weeks for your stoma to settle to a proper shape and size.

Does a stoma hurt?

Since your stoma doesn’t have any nerve ending, it doesn’t hurt at all. The pain you feel may be in the abdominal skin around the stoma. If that is the case, see your ostomy care nurse immediately.

You will need to wear an ostomy pouch over the stoma to manage stool or urine evacuations. Since it doesn’t have any sphincter muscles, you will have no control over when to move your bowels or urinate. Wearing a bag allows you to go to your workplace or walk around without having to worry about the stomal output.

Why would a person need an ostomy?

You may need an ostomy for a variety of reasons.

A human body consists of complex systems and organs that work together. Systems and organs that process wastes expel them out can become diseased or injured. Such conditions can result in a person needing an ostomy. However, not every case of malfunctioning in such systems necessitates an ostomy. You can discuss with your doctor if you need an ostomy to treat your abdominal or urinary disorder.

What are some typical reasons for an ostomy?

You may need an ostomy for various reasons. Some of them are worth mentioning here.

• Inflammatory bowel disease
• Crohn’s disease
• Bladder cancer
• Diverticulitis
• Ulcerative colitis
• Cancer in the colon, rectum, or bladder
• Incontinence
• Severe infection
• Obstruction
• Injury

If you have any of these conditions, you may want to discuss with your doctor whether or not you need an ostomy. In many cases, you may need an ostomy temporarily to allow the diseased part to recover. Your doctor will let you know about everything.