Mucus from the stoma
Mucus discharge is a normal part of having a stoma.
The lining of the bowel naturally produces mucus to help move waste along. Even after stoma surgery, this lining continues to produce mucus, even though it is no longer needed in the same way.
Because mucus often mixes with stool, it may not always be noticeable in the pouch. For people with a urostomy, it can be easier to see, as it appears in otherwise clear urine.
It’s also common for mucus production to be higher in the first weeks or months after surgery, before gradually settling down.
However, if you notice a sudden increase in mucus, this can sometimes be linked to a urinary tract infection, particularly with a urostomy. If this happens, it’s a good idea to speak with your stoma care nurse or GP.
Small adjustments that may help
Some people find that certain changes can help reduce mucus levels.
For example:
- Increasing vitamin C intake
- Drinking cranberry juice (please note: do not take cranberry if you are on warfarin)
These approaches may help, but it’s important to avoid cranberry products if you are taking warfarin.
Discharge from the rectum
If your rectum and anus remain in place after surgery, it is possible to experience discharge from the bottom. This is known as rectal discharge.
This can happen after a colostomy, and also after an ileostomy if part of the large intestine is still present. The likelihood of this happening often depends on how much of the bowel remains.
The discharge is usually mucus, and it can vary in appearance. Some people notice a clear, jelly-like consistency, while for others it may feel thicker or more sticky.
In some cases, mucus may pass naturally. In others, it can build up and form a small lump, which may cause discomfort until it is released.
If you notice blood or pus, this is not considered typical and could suggest infection or irritation. In this situation, it’s important to seek medical advice.
Ways to manage rectal discharge
There are a few practical steps that can help make rectal discharge easier to manage.
- Responding to the natural urge to open your bowels can help prevent mucus from building up
- Sitting on the toilet regularly and gently pushing (without straining) may help release mucus
- Avoiding strain is important, as excessive pressure can affect the pelvic floor
If the sensation of needing to pass mucus is reduced, your stoma care nurse may suggest further support.
Some people may also be advised to use glycerine suppositories, which help make the mucus softer and easier to pass.
Discharge from the skin around the stoma
It’s also important to pay attention to the skin around your stoma.
When checking your peristomal skin, you may notice signs such as redness or irritation. Alongside this, it’s important to look for any discharge coming from where the stoma meets the skin.
If you notice discharge that:
- Appears bloody
- Has an unpleasant or unusual smell
This may be a sign of infection. In these cases, it’s best to speak with your stoma care nurse for advice.
Knowing when to seek support
Many types of discharge are a normal part of living with a stoma, especially in the early stages after surgery.
At the same time, it’s important to trust your instincts. If something changes suddenly, feels uncomfortable, or doesn’t seem quite right, it’s always okay to ask for advice.
Your stoma care nurse and healthcare team are there to support you — whether it’s reassurance or help managing a concern.
Feeling more confident over time
Understanding your body takes time. What feels unfamiliar at first often becomes easier to recognise and manage.
By learning what is normal for you, and knowing when to reach out for support, you can feel more confident in your daily routine — and more at ease with the changes your body has gone through.
FAQ: Stoma discharge
What is the discharge from a stoma?
The type of discharge from a stoma depends largely on the type of stoma you have. A colostomy usually produces formed or semi-formed stool, similar in consistency to a normal bowel movement. An ileostomy produces more liquid or porridge-like output, as waste passes through before the large bowel has had a chance to absorb water. A urostomy drains urine. In addition to the primary output, it is also normal to notice small amounts of mucus, as the bowel lining naturally produces mucus as part of its normal function. Any sudden and significant change in the colour, consistency or smell of the output — such as very dark, tarry or bloody discharge — should always be discussed with a doctor or stoma care nurse.
What is the liquid coming out of my stoma?
Liquid output from a stoma is most commonly associated with an ileostomy, where waste leaves the body before reaching the large bowel and therefore retains much of its water content. This is completely normal for this type of stoma. However, if output becomes unusually watery or increases significantly in volume, it may indicate a digestive upset, a food intolerance, a stomach bug or (in some cases) a partial blockage, where liquid waste passes around a obstruction. Consistently very high liquid output from an ileostomy can lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalance relatively quickly, so it is important to increase fluid intake and seek advice from a stoma care nurse or doctor if watery output persists for more than a day or two.
Why is my stoma output slimy?
A certain amount of mucus in stoma output is perfectly normal, as the bowel lining continuously produces mucus to lubricate the passage of waste. This is part of healthy bowel function and is not a cause for concern in small amounts. However, if the output appears excessively slimy, or if mucus is present in large quantities or accompanied by blood, this may indicate inflammation, infection or irritation of the bowel lining. People who have had a colostomy or ileostomy may also notice mucus being passed from the back passage — this is residual mucus produced by the remaining section of bowel and is also normal, though it can be surprising for those who are unaware it can happen.
What are three signs that a stoma could be infected?
While stoma infections are not that common, it is important to know the warning signs so that treatment can be sought early. The first sign to look out for is increased redness, warmth or swelling around the stoma or the surrounding skin, which goes beyond the normal pinkish-red colour of healthy stoma tissue. The second sign is the presence of unusual discharge — particularly if it is thick, cloudy, foul-smelling or pus-like — which can indicate a bacterial infection either at the stoma site or in the surrounding skin. The third sign is pain or tenderness around the stoma that is out of the ordinary, particularly if accompanied by a fever or a general feeling of being unwell. Any combination of these symptoms should be assessed by a doctor or stoma care nurse as promptly as possible.