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Ostomy: Adapting to life after colostomy, ileostomy or urostomy

Content You can eat whatever you want if you have an ostomy You can participate in sports if you have an ostomy You can go back to work if you have an ostomy You can tell — or not tell — whomever you want about your ostomy You can hide your ostomy You can wear whatever you want if you have an ostomy You can go wherever you want if you have an ostomy You can have sex and intimate relationships if you have an ostomy Talk to others with ostomies

You can hide your ostomy

To you, the ostomy bag attached to you is very obvious. When you look in the mirror, you notice the bag under your clothes. You might think every gurgle and noise coming from your stoma is loud and heard by everyone in the room.

Most people won't notice your ostomy unless you tell them about it. As you get used to your ostomy, you'll figure out tips and ways to keep the bag concealed and the noises to a minimum. Here are some ideas to get you started:

  • Empty your ostomy bag when it gets to be one-third full. That way it won't bulge under your clothes.
  • Work with your ostomy nurse to find the ostomy pouching system that works best for you.
  • If you're worried about the odor when emptying your ostomy bag, ask your ostomy nurse or visit your medical supply store for pouch deodorants or air sprays to minimize odor.

Ask a close friend or loved one whose opinion you trust whether your ostomy bag is visible under your clothes or if the sounds your ostomy makes are as loud as you think they are. Everyone's body makes noises and produces odors from time to time. While it can be embarrassing, don't let a fear of what could go wrong keep you from going about your day.

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