An ostomy is a surgical procedure that creates an opening in the abdomen, allowing waste or urine to leave the body through a surgically created stoma. The stoma is created by bringing part of the bowel or urinary system through the abdominal wall. The procedure is used to treat certain diseases of the digestive or urinary systems, and it can be permanent or temporary, depending on the reason for the surgery. There are different types of ostomies, including colostomy, ileostomy, and urostomy, depending on the organ involved. An ostomy pouching system is a prosthetic medical device that provides a means for the collection of waste from a surgically diverted biological system and the creation of a stoma. The pouching system allows the stoma to drain into a sealed collection pouch, while protecting the surrounding skin from contamination. Ostomy barriers sit on the skin and separate the ostomy pouch from the internal conduit. They are not always present and are available in a wide variety of sizes to accommodate a persons particular anatomy. Living with an ostomy can be a major adjustment, and people who have an ostomy system can experience social isolation, depression, and change in sexual function as well as physical complications such as weight change. However, hundreds of thousands of people who’ve had ostomy surgery lead active, fulfilling lives. There are many resources available to help ostomates cope with their new situation, including online ostomy groups and ostomy societies.