Ostomy Essentials

Troubleshooting peristomal skin

Jennie Burch explains how best to protect the skin around your stoma and how you can resolve any issues that are causing you discomfort

Travelling with an ostomy

Vicky Wilson, Coloplast Nurse with 20 years’ experience in stoma care nursing, offers some tips on taking your stoma on holiday safely and with confidence

Using convex stoma pouches

Jennie Burch discusses the what, why, when and how of convex ostomy appliances

Keeping faith: stoma care for Hindus and Sikhs

Lisa Hall helps ostomates from the world’s major religions factor their culture, beliefs and values into life with a stoma

Back in the sack: sex with a stoma

How to make the most of romantic relationships and rekindle your sex life after stoma surgery

Troubleshooting your stoma

Stomas are a life saver, but at times they can also be troublesome, and it’s important to know how to spot and sort any problems

Preventing pouch leaks

Leaks are a common issue for people with a stoma, but handling them right can keep them from happening again

Stoma reversal: what to expect after

When it comes to stoma reversal, going ‘back to normal’ can be anything but that; however, knowing what to expect and how to address issues will make the process much easier

Pouch problems: troubleshooting your appliance

How to recognise common issues with your ostomy pouch and find the smartest way to fix them

Irrigating your colostomy

‘There can be no doubt that the efficient management of a colostomy is a matter of profound importance to those who need to spend the rest of their lives with one’ Anonymous, 1958

Stoma fit: exercises to strengthen your core muscles

Simple exercises to help you get back on your feet after surgery and avoid the risk of a parastomal hernia

Stoma appliances: choosing the right one for you

Different stomas require different kinds of pouches, and this is your handy guide to getting the right fit for you