Skip to content

Get Free Help & Advice: 0800 592 786

Basket

Expert & community voices

Beyond the practical basics, there's a whole community of experience and expertise to draw on. Here you'll find insights from stoma nurse specialists on the myths and realities of ostomy life, alongside real stories and tips from people living it every day.

woman touching stoma pouch on abdomen

Stoma nurse insights: Myths and realities about common ostomy concerns

Sally Wright has worked as a Stoma Care Nurse for over 15 years, providing specialist care, education, and support to individuals recovering from stoma surgery within the community. Sally recognises that every patient’s recovery journey is unique, and she has a particular interest in the psychological aspects of adapting to life with a stoma. Her previous role as a Dermatology Sister highlighted the importance of emotional wellbeing whilst coming to terms with changes to our bodies and on self esteem.

Read article

What is an ileostomy: Everything you need to know

An ileostomy is a surgical procedure where the small intestine is brought to the surface of your abdomen. The result is a stoma: an opening in your abdominal wall through which waste passes into a special pouch. In this guide, you'll learn how the surgery works, the different types of ileostomies, how to manage your nutrition and stoma care, plus practical tips for staying active with an ostomy.

Read article

What is a urostomy: All you need to know

A urostomy changes many things at first glance, but it doesn't have to change your quality of life. In this guide, you'll learn everything important: how the surgery works, what types of urostomies exist, how to care for your stoma and manage everyday challenges; plus practical tips for staying active and feeling your best.

Read article

What is a colostomy: What you need to know

A colostomy changes many things at first glance, but it doesn't have to change your quality of life. In this guide, you'll learn what types of colostomies exist, when they're necessary, how to manage your nutrition and care for your stoma, plus practical tips for staying active and enjoying life.

Read article

Your first ostomy appliance: A beginner's guide

Choosing your first stoma appliance can feel overwhelming, especially with so many pouching systems, sizes, and accessories to consider. There's no single "perfect" bag — the right one depends on your stoma, body, and lifestyle, and finding it often takes some trial and adjustment. This guide covers the basics to help you feel more prepared.

Read article

Stoma infection: Signs, causes, and how to treat it

Stoma infections are rare, thanks to the intestinal lining's natural mucus production and rich blood supply, which help repel bacteria and support healing. It's far more common for the peristomal skin — the area surrounding the stoma — to become irritated or infected due to moisture or leakage. Knowing the signs of a stoma infection can help you catch problems early. This guide covers the causes, the types you might encounter, and when to speak to your stoma care nurse or GP.

Read article

Finding the right stoma bag: Everything you need to know

With so many options in shape, size, material and design, choosing the right stoma bag can feel overwhelming at first. But finding the perfect stoma bag isn't about picking the "best" product overall — it's about finding what suits your stoma type and your day-to-day life. In this guide, you'll learn everything you need to know about the different types of stoma bags, how to find the right one for you, and answers to the most common questions.

Read article

What is a fistula? A guide for ostomates

The word fistula is often mentioned alongside stoma surgery, but only a small number of people with a stoma will experience one. In this guide, we'll explain what a fistula is, the different types of stoma fistula, the symptoms to look out for, and the treatments that may help.

Read article

woman holding stomach

Painful stoma: What could be causing it, and when to worry

Experiencing stoma pain can be quite unsettling, especially while you're still trying to find your feet after surgery. In this guide, you'll learn about the most common causes of stoma pain, how to tell ordinary discomfort from something that needs urgent attention, and what you can do to feel more comfortable day to day.

Read article

Stoma necrosis: Causes, symptoms & treatment

Stoma necrosis is a serious but thankfully uncommon complication that can affect a stoma. In this guide, you'll learn what causes it, when it tends to happen, how to recognise it, and what treatment usually looks like.

Read article