An ostomy is a surgically created opening, called a stoma, that lets stool or urine leave the body through the abdomen. The three main types are colostomy, ileostomy and urostomy. Start here to understand your ostomy, what recovery looks like and how to eat well afterward.
Guides in this section
Ileostomy vs colostomyHow the two differ in output, diet, pouch changes and daily life, side by side.Adapting to life after colostomy, ileostomy or urostomyThe emotional and practical side of adjusting, with an adjustment tracker.Ostomy life after surgeryWhat recovery really looks like in the weeks and months after surgery.Your first 30 days with an ostomyA week-by-week guide to your first month home with a new stoma.Ostomy reversalWho can have a reversal, what surgery and recovery involve, and how to prepare.Ileostomy dietHydration, fiber, blockage-risk foods and a food tolerance tracker.Colostomy dietGas, constipation and how to find your own trigger foods.
More from the Ostomy Library
Care and Complications · Daily Life With an Ostomy · Stoma Noise and Odor · Supplies and Stoma Protection
Back to the Ostomy Library
These guides are general information, not medical advice. For anything urgent or new, call your doctor or stoma nurse.