What is a stoma?
Support and information for stoma patients and caregivers
A stoma (also called an ostomy) is a surgical opening from the abdomen to allow either faeces or urine to be directed to the opening of the stoma.
A stoma pouch (also called a stoma bag) collects the ‘output’ (faeces or urine) from the stoma.
A person with a stoma is often called an ‘ostomate.’ Stomas may be temporary or permanent and there are a number of different reasons why they may be needed but the most common are:
- Colorectal cancer
- Bladder cancer
- Ulcerative colitis
- Crohn’s disease
- Accidental injury
There are three types of stoma:
Colostomy
This is an opening from the large intestine
Ileostomy
This is an opening from the small intestine
Urostomy
This is an opening for a person’s urine
Frequently Asked Questions
Read Frequently Asked Questions on stoma pouches, stoma management products and lifestyle advice.
Stoma management support
Whether you’re a new or experienced ostomate, we hope you find this advice useful for managing your stoma.
How to guides
Read our on-line user guides for our wide range of stoma pouches and stoma management products.
Introducing NaturFit®
stoma pouch range
Our new range of one-piece stoma pouches