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Caring For Your Stoma

A stoma (the Greek word for "mouth") is shiny, wet, and red in color, similar to the inside lining of your mouth. It will usually have a round or oval shape, varying in size. After surgery, the stoma may appear swollen. The swelling will go down and it will gradually shrink in size after a few months. During this time, it is necessary to continue to measure your stoma, making sure the pouching system fits correctly.

A stoma does not have nerve endings; therefore, it doesn't transmit pain or other sensations. It is, however, rich in blood vessels and may bleed slightly if irritated or rubbed. This is normal, but if bleeding is prolonged or if discharge from the stoma is bloody, be sure to contact your doctor.

The skin surrounding the stoma, called the peristomal skin, must be protected from direct contact with discharge. This discharge is potentially irritating, since it is very high in digestive enzymes. The peristomal skin should be gently cleansed with plain soap that leaves no residue, then rinsed with water during each change of the ostomy pouching system. Water will not enter a stoma because of its gentle outward contractions, so it's not necessary to cover the stoma while bathing or showering.

Understanding Colostomy Surgery

A colostomy is a surgically created opening in the abdomen through which a small portion of the colon is brought up to the surface of the skin. This new opening, called a stoma, allows stool to pass directly out of the body, bypassing a diseased or damaged section of the colon. In some patients, this section may be removed. More... 

Understanding Ileostomy Surgery

An ileostomy is a surgically created opening in the abdomen through which the end of the ileum is brought up to the surface of the skin. This new opening, called a stoma, allows waste to pass directly out of the body, bypassing a diseased or damaged section of the colon. In many cases, the colon is removed. Its function, reabsorbing water and electrolytes, will be carried out to some degree by the small intestine. More... 

Understanding Urostomy Surgery

A urostomy, or urinary diversion, is a surgically created opening in the abdomen that allows urine to pass directly out of the body. This new opening, called a stoma, diverts urine from a diseased portion of the urinary tract. Part of the small intestine is used to connect the ureters to the abdominal wall. More...