Ostomy Pouches

Different Stomas & Ostomy Bags That Can Help

Each individual is wonderfully different and unique in their own way and this also applies to medical conditions such as the need for an ostomy and stomas. For whatever reason a patient needs an ostomy (colostomy, ileostomy, or even urostomy), each one is uniquely different even if it’s in a very small way. Since there are a variety of stomas themselves, the options for any ostimate is plentiful and you should try different brands or even different styles of bags/adhesives until you find the one that is just right. Find your Goldilocks zone!!

Where is Stoma located?

Surgeries that require an ostomy will result in a stoma. A stoma is an opening in the abdominal wall that allows body waste to pass-through into an apparatus bag. The type of surgery you have will dictate where your stoma will be located. For instance, if your surgery requires that your ostomy involves your small intestines you will have what’s called an ileostomy. A colostomy (regardless of what type) involves the large intestines. Both of these procedures bypass the colon due to an injury or possible illness. No matter the ostomy surgery you have, it will result in a stoma to allow waste to exit your body. The skin around your stoma is often referred to as peristomal skin and should be a focal point of your skincare routine. Keeping this area clean and dry can head off potentially dangerous health issues down the road, including infection and skin irritation. In both an ileostomy and colostomy, fecal matter is what’s expelled from the body, whereas a urostomy involves the bladder and expelling urine from your body.

What are the differences between Stomas?

Yes, different types of ostimies will result in your stoma being located in different areas of your abdomen. There are also different types of stomas and each one requires a slightly different method of securing your apparatus. Believe it or not, stomas can have three different physical appearances and they include:

1. Regular Stoma: This is when you’re stoma area is essentially level or even with the abdominal area.
2. Inward Stoma: When the stoma area sinks or retreats into the abdomen creating an indent or hollow area, this is considered an inward stoma. Pretty straightforward!!
3. Outward Stoma: Yes, you guessed it. When the stoma tissue or perineal skin protrudes outward and creates a bulge or peak, you have an outward stoma.

Each of these distinctly different stoma can benefit from different types of ostomy bags, adhesive rings, or even one or two piece apparatus bags. This same identification can be used for those who have a urostomy also. Obviously, with a regular stoma you may have more options available to you than if you had an inward or outward stoma depending upon the size of the indent or protrusion. Many manufacturers offer ostomy kits that have all-in-one options or a two piece apparatus kit that leave the adhesive ring in place around the peristomal skin and stoma and you just change the pouch. By identifying which type of stoma you have, can help you choose the appropriate ostomy appliance to make your life easier. You may benefit from a little trial and error to find the perfect fit for you.

Life is hard enough and when you introduce ostomy surgery to it, it may seem insurmountable. Things have changed significantly and you can even be active and maintain your quality of life with today’s ostomy products available to you. Each manufacturer has a number of different options available, so don’t be afraid to try different styles and manufacturers until you find the one that is perfect for you.

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