Living with a stoma
As you may be aware, a stoma (or ostomy) is a surgically created opening in the abdomen to divert the flow of faeces or urine so that it can collected in a bag[i]. Individuals of all ages can have a stoma and stoma surgery is undertaken to treat a wide range of illnesses including cancer, Ulcerative Colitis and Crohn’s disease or following a trauma to the abdomen[ii]. There are three main types of stoma: colostomy; ileostomy; and urostomy. A stoma can also be temporary or permanent[iii].
People with a stoma are collectively known as ‘ostomates’ or ‘ostomists’. It is estimated that 165,000 – 200,000 people are living with a stoma in the UK. Approximately 21,000 people have stoma surgery each year[iv] [v] [vi]. Whatever the reason for the surgery, they will all have undergone life-changing surgery and received a diagnosis of a chronic condition. However, with the right care and good stoma management, many can live life to the full.
This does not mean living with a stoma is easy and individuals can feel isolated by what can feel like a “hidden condition”. Ostomates may have concerns about how their stoma looks or smells even though ostomy products have been designed to be odour-proof and discreet. In addition, some ostomates are uncomfortable using public toilet facilities, particularly if there are no waste bins to place their used products. Travelling, working or socialising may also be worrying for this reason. We know that adjusting to life with a stoma can be difficult at first but we also know that it is possible for people to enjoy an active and full life. There are amazing individuals doing amazing things every day, who just happen to have a stoma. These people might be firefighters, rugby players, nurses, and teachers; the list goes on.