The Ostomy Library is a collection of practical, research-backed guides for people living with a colostomy, ileostomy or urostomy. It answers the questions many people are too private to ask, from what is normal in the first month to how to handle stoma noise at work. Pick a topic below, or start with the most-read guides.
Browse by topic
Ostomy BasicsColostomy, ileostomy and urostomy explained, recovery and diet.Care and ComplicationsProlapse, hernia, blockage, leaks, high output and skin care.Daily Life With an OstomyEating, work, clothes, intimacy, travel, sleep and exercise.Stoma Noise and OdorWhy stomas make noise and how to quiet them.Supplies and Stoma ProtectionWhere to buy supplies and how to protect your stoma.
Start here
Ileostomy vs colostomyHow the two differ in output, diet, pouch changes and daily life, side by side.Your first 30 days with an ostomyA week-by-week guide to your first month home with a new stoma.How to stop stoma noiseThe complete guide to quieting stoma noise.Prolapsed stomaWhy a stoma prolapses, when it is urgent, and what helps.
About these guides
Every guide is written for real life with an ostomy and cites published research where it exists. They are general information, not medical advice. For anything urgent or new, call your doctor or stoma nurse. Learn more about Stoma Stifler.