Stoma is the Greek word for opening. Stomas are created surgically for the removal of waste products from the body. Ileo-Anal Anastomosis (J-pouch) - an internal pouch formed out of the terminal portion of the ileum (technically not a stoma) Urostomy, Ileal Conduit or Urinary Diversion - tubes which drain urine from the kidneys are implanted into an isolated piece of small bowel which acts as a tube to divert urine.

People with ostomies shower and bathe both with and without their appliances according to their personal preference. Normal exposure to air or contact with soap and water will not harm the stoma and water does not enter the ostomy opening. In the case of the ileostomate, you may want to choose a time for bathing when the bowel is less active. See similar questions...

A. Yes if you are having unprotected sexual intercourse. A stoma will not change your fertility in any way. See similar questions...

Clean warm tap water and soft cotton wipes is all that is needed. When bathing or showering the pouch may be removed and a mild soap may be used. Avoid using soaps containing moisturisers and oils as these can interfere with the adhesion of the pouch or wafer. See similar questions...

A well-cared-for stoma is painless. It should also not cause discomfort. A person who has one should be able to resume physical activity. A therapist called an enterostomal therapist (ET) can help a person learn how to take care of a stoma. He or she can also help a person adjust to life with a stoma. See similar questions...

A. Most hospitals will have a stoma care department. Contact the local hospital switchboard and they will put you in contact with the relevant department. Alternatively, contact the Ostomy Lifestyle Centre who will advise you of the nearest stoma care nurse to you. See similar questions...

A. You can have a temporary stoma for anything from two weeks to a year. It will depend on the surgery, your medical condition and your rate of recovery. You may choose to keep this stoma, as there are risks involved in closure. A. There are many reasons why you may have sores around your stoma. It may or may not be related to your Crohn’s disease. It may be something simple like you are cutting the hole in your pouch too large and faecal waste is gettin. See similar questions...

A. You may be advised to consult with your GP or family planning clinic if you have an ileostomy as the pill may not be adsorbed effectively. You will need some other form of contraception if you are not planning to get pregnant. Click here for more information on sexual activity, and a list of support groups. See similar questions...

Yes. It is fine to bathe or shower for a short period with your pouch or wafer on. The water will not reduce the adhesion of the pouch or wafer. See similar questions...

Downsize the patient to a #4 trach tube. Insert the SCOOP catheter into the stoma. Consider the patient to be in Phase III. After a few days, the stoma should “snug” down around the catheter. Advance the patient per standard published protocols. See our manuals containing the appropriate protocols. See similar questions...

At first you'll be very aware of it because it's new. As time goes on, you'll soon find yourself forgetting all about it. Usually I cannot feel my stoma when it expels its waste products (except sometimes when it passes gas - but then again, that is usually heard not felt). Except when I feel the bag getting full or I empty it, I usually forget that my stoma is even there! Yes it can do but usually only if passing gas and not even most of the time then. See similar questions...

Most likely your stoma will be swollen when you first have your op and will slowly shrink with time until it reaches it's natural size. I have not heard of anyone's stoma enlarging or shrinking due to weight gain/loss. See similar questions...

Hernias around the stoma site are usually caused when an ostomate attempts to live heavy items (around 50 pounds seems to be the agreed limit for us although is, by no means, an absolute figure). Because the stomach muscles have been cut, they are now weaker than before and we are, therefore, more susceptible to hernias than other people. Luckily, they don't seem to happen that often. They manifest themselves as a large bulge around the stoma area. See similar questions...

There is a small chance of a stricture between your gastric pouch and your intestine. If you have problems keeping solid food down or notice that you were doing fine for awhile and then have problems, call your surgeon's office. You may need to have a procedure to stretch the stoma. See similar questions...

A. Usually children are able to cope if they are given the information in a simple way. Many stoma care nurses will discuss and advise you of simple ways of introducing the idea to your children. See similar questions...

A. Yes. This is perfectly normal. It may be down to rough cleaning and washing of your stoma. Your stoma lining is delicate and care should be taken when cleaning. A small amount of pressure with a soft cloth will stop any bleeding. If the bleeding is excessive contact your stoma care nurse. A. Sometimes your stoma changes size and shape and some can even start to sink a little. All of these problems, whilst relatively common, can cause your stoma bag . See similar questions...

A. This sounds like it is a parastomal hernia. This can occur immediately following surgery or even years later. The bulge is where your underlying muscle (deep in your abdomen) is trying to push through the upper abdominal muscles. This most often happens if you have weak abdominal walls or have lifted something heavy and strained the supporting muscles. It is not serious but will need to be assessed by your GP or stoma care nurse who will advise the appropriate trea. See similar questions...

A. It will depend on the operation that the surgeon performs. He will discuss this with you before your surgery. It is important that you ask him this question, as it may be a temporary or a permanent stoma. A. Irrigation is only suitable for people with end colostomies. It is not for everybody and can take a long time. Your scan will be able to tell you if it is suitable for you. See similar questions...