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What is a stoma?

A stoma is where a part of the small or large intestine is brought through a small opening in the surface of the abdomen to divert the flow of urine or faeces which is referred to as output. The output is collected in a bag that attaches to the abdomen. Stomas can be temporary or permanent, depending on the person’s condition and the type of surgery performed.

There are a number of conditions that may require treatment with a stoma including cancer, Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Having a stoma can represent a big improvement in a person’s quality of life and around one in 335 people living in the UK have a stoma and use stoma bags or pouches.

Living with a stoma
Close-up image of a healthy end colostomy.

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Types of stoma

An ileostomy is formed from the small intestine, also called the ileum, and is created because the large intestine needs to be removed or rested. The large intestine, or colon, absorbs a lot of water from what we eat and drink. So, as the waste no longer passes through the colon the output from an ileostomy tends to be quite loose.

There are two types of ileostomy: a loop ileostomy and an end ileostomy. In a loop ileostomy a loop of the small intestine is pulled out through an incision in the abdomen. It’s then cut open and stitched in place to form the stoma. An end ileostomy is where the small intestine is separated from the large intestine and brought out through the abdomen forming the stoma.

Why might someone need an ileostomy?

There are many reasons someone might need an ileostomy. Diseases like ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease cause inflammation in the gastrointestinal system which can require the large intestine to be rested or removed. The large intestine may become blocked or can tear and bowel cancer can result in growths that require removal. Injuries to the spinal cord can also result in the person needing an ileostomy.

Stoma Care

An older woman lies in a hospital bed and smiles up a doctor who is sat next to her holding her hand.

Stoma surgery

Whether emergency or planned find information on what to expect from stoma surgery.
Aura Plus soft convex closed sand stoma bag with a towel.

What is a stoma bag?

Find information on what a stoma bag is, how they work and what the different types are used for.

How to choose the right stoma bag

There are a wide variety of stoma bags available, find out which one could work for you.
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Living with a stoma

From diet to relationships find information and advice about living to the fullest with a stoma.

FAQs

What should a stoma look like?

A stoma is usually red in colour and moist like the skin on the inside of your mouth. Some people say that stomas resemble rosebuds. Although it looks raw, there are no nerve endings in the stoma so it has no feeling.

If your stoma is or becomes black, dusky, pale or sloughy (separating from the body), report it to your doctor or stoma nurse. You should also report any soreness, inflammation or ulceration of the skin around the stoma, and any sudden or unexplained swelling of the stoma.

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