A stoma is an opening on the surface of the abdomen that can be connected to either the digestive or urinary system to allow waste (urine or feces) to be diverted out of the body. It is created surgically when an illness involves the removal of a section of the bowel or bladder, or when there is an obstruction to the bladder or bowel. A stoma can be temporary or permanent, depending on the cause.

The stoma looks like a small, pinkish, circular piece of flesh that is sewn to the body. It may lie fairly flat to the body or protrude out. Over the top of the stoma, a pouch is worn, which can either be closed or have an opening at the bottom. The stoma has no nerve endings, so there should be no pain from it.

There are three main types of ostomy: colostomy, urostomy, and ileostomy. Colostomy is a small piece of the bowel that is pulled through an incision made through the abdomen and sewn to the stomach to form a stoma. The ureters will then be connected to the stoma. Ileostomy is made from the ileum in the small bowel. Urostomy is in the small bowel to divert urine from the bladder.

There are many reasons why someone may need a stoma, including bowel cancer, bladder cancer, inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn’s Disease or Ulcerative Colitis), diverticulitis, or an obstruction to the bladder or bowel. According to research carried out by the NHS, there are 176,824 people in the UK living with a stoma, with the most common conditions resulting in stoma surgery being colorectal cancer, bladder cancer, ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s disease, and accidental injury.

Living with a stoma can seem daunting at first, but with help and support, many people maintain a normal quality of life. While it may take time, there are specialis...