What Is an Ostomy?
A Clear, Compassionate Guide to Understanding Ostomy Care
What is an Ostomy?
An ostomy is a surgically created opening in the body that allows waste—most commonly stool and/or urine—to exit when part of the digestive or urinary system isn’t functioning as it should.
This opening, called a stoma, is typically located on the abdomen and connects to either the digestive or urinary system. Waste is collected outside the body using a secure pouching system.
While ostomies most often involve the digestive or urinary systems, there are other, less common types of ostomies as well.
Ostomies can be temporary, allowing the body time to heal, or permanent, depending on the individual’s medical condition and treatment plan.
No two ostomies are exactly the same. Each person’s experience is shaped by their diagnosis, anatomy, surgical approach, and lifestyle—so outcomes and day-to-day life can look different from one individual to another.
Why Is an Ostomy Performed?
An ostomy may be necessary when part of the digestive or urinary system is damaged, diseased, or needs time to heal.
Common reasons include:
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Colorectal or bladder cancer
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Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis
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Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
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Trauma or injury
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Congenital or birth conditions
In many cases, ostomy surgery is life-saving and can significantly improve quality of life.
Types of Ostomy Procedures
There are three primary types of ostomies:
Colostomy
Created from the large intestine (colon), allowing stool to exit through the abdominal wall.
Ileostomy
Formed from the small intestine (ileum), often used when the colon needs to heal or is removed.
Urostomy
Diverts urine through a harvested section of small intestine (the ileum) as a conduit from the urinary tract to the exterior of the body. Often needed when the bladder is no longer able to function effectively.
Each type is tailored to the individual’s condition, anatomy, and long-term health needs.
What Is a Stoma?
A stoma is a surgically created opening on the surface of the abdomen that connects to the digestive or urinary system. It is formed by bringing a portion of the intestine through the abdominal wall, creating an opening that allows waste—most commonly stool and/or urine—to exit the body into an external pouch when the usual route is no longer possible or safe.
The visible part of the stoma is the interior lining of the intestine. It is:
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Pink or red in color
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Moist, similar to the inside of the mouth
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Can bleed easily due to the exposed interior of the intestinal lining
Understanding the stoma is an important part of learning how to care for and live confidently with an ostomy.
Living With an Ostomy
An ostomy can be a significant life adjustment — but it does not define a person’s life. With the right support, education, and resources, individuals with an ostomy can:
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Return to work and daily routines
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Maintain an active lifestyle
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Travel, exercise, and engage socially
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Eat a full and balanced diet (with guidance)
For many, an ostomy is not a limitation — it is a pathway to improved health, comfort, and freedom.
Changing the Conversation Around Ostomy Care & Breaking Stigma
Despite how common and life-saving ostomy procedures are, stigma and misunderstanding still exist. At the Ostomy Foundation, we are committed to:
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Educating the medical & health care community
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Supporting individuals and families
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Educating communities nationwide
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Ensuring no one feels isolated or unsupported
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Advocating for dignity and awareness
You Are Not Alone
As a national nonprofit headquartered in New Milford, Connecticut, the Ostomy Foundation provides education, support, and advocacy to individuals and families across the United States. We exist to ensure that no one navigating life with an ostomy does so without:
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Trusted information
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Human connection
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Access to care
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A path forward
Have Questions or Need Support?
Whether you are newly diagnosed, preparing for surgery, or supporting someone with an ostomy — we are here to help.