New Ostomy Patient Guide (UK): Everything You Need to Know

Starting life with a stoma can feel overwhelming at first, but with the right information and the right equipment, the vast majority of people with a stoma go on to live full and active lives. This complete guide for new ostomy patients in the UK walks you through the first weeks after surgery and beyond — from daily care to getting back to normal life.

What Is a Stoma?

A stoma is a surgically created opening in the abdominal wall through which bodily waste (stool or urine) is redirected to the outside of the body. The visible opening on the abdomen is called the stoma. Depending on which part of the bowel or urinary tract is involved, it may be a colostomy, an ileostomy or a urostomy.

A stoma is usually pink or red in colour — similar to the inside of the mouth. It has no nerve endings, so it is not painful to touch, though it may bleed slightly if rubbed.

Your First Days in Hospital

Immediately after surgery, a stoma care nurse (also known as a Clinical Nurse Specialist or CNS) will teach you the basics of stoma care. In these early days:

• Your stoma may be swollen and larger than it will eventually be. The final size stabilises 6 to 8 weeks after surgery.
• You will learn how to change your stoma bag with support from your nurse.
• You will receive information about available products and how to obtain them on the NHS.
• Your diet in hospital will typically start with fluids and gradually progress.

Changing Your Bag: Step by Step

Changing a stoma bag is a skill that comes with practice. In time, the process takes just 5 to 10 minutes. The basic steps are:

• Prepare your supplies: Clean bag, scissors, protective paste or powder if used, alcohol-free wipes.
• Remove the used bag: Gently press down on the skin whilst peeling the bag away from top to bottom. Empty it before removing if it is a drainable bag.
• Clean the stoma: Use warm water and soft wipes. Avoid perfumed soaps. Pat the peristomal skin thoroughly dry before fitting the new bag.
• Measure and cut: The bag opening should match your stoma size exactly (no more than 2–3 mm larger).
• Fit the new bag: Remove the backing paper and apply from bottom to top. Press firmly for 30 to 60 seconds for a good seal.

Peristomal Skin Care

The skin around your stoma is crucial for comfortable stoma living. A well-fitting baseplate is your best protection. If you notice persistent irritation, redness or soreness, contact your stoma care nurse without delay. Skin problems are the most common complication but are very treatable when caught early. Your NHS stoma care nurse can usually be reached directly without needing a GP referral.

SIIL Stoma Belts: Security and Confidence

A quality stoma belt keeps your bag firmly in place throughout the day, reduces the risk of leaks and gives you the confidence to move freely. SIIL's stoma belts are made from soft, breathable fabrics developed specifically for stoma wearers.

Shop SIIL Stoma Belts UK →

Eating with a Stoma

In the first weeks, follow a low-residue diet to support healing and reduce wind and output volume. Over time, most people with a stoma can eat almost everything in moderation. Some general guidance:

• Chew food thoroughly and eat slowly.
• Introduce new foods one at a time to identify any that cause problems.
• Drink plenty of fluids — especially important with an ileostomy due to dehydration risk.
• Ask your stoma care nurse for a referral to an NHS dietitian for personalised advice.

Physical Activity and Getting Back to Normal

A stoma should not stop you from exercising, working, travelling or enjoying your social life. Most people gradually return to their usual activities between four and eight weeks after surgery. Start with gentle walks and build up from there. For more strenuous activity, a support belt can be very helpful.

Emotional Wellbeing

It is completely normal to experience a range of emotions after surgery — relief, sadness, anxiety or uncertainty. Talking to your GP, stoma care nurse, or a patient support group can make an enormous difference. Colostomy UK and the Urostomy Association offer excellent support networks, helplines and peer mentoring throughout the UK. Your NHS stoma care team can also refer you to psychological support if needed.

Stoma Clothing: Comfort and Discretion

Specialist stoma underwear and clothing are designed to hold your bag comfortably in place, prevent it from shifting and conceal the bag profile under everyday clothes. SIIL Ostomy offers a full range of stoma clothing for men and women.