If you’re new to caring for someone with a stoma you might still be adjusting to the basics. But don’t worry, we’re here to help! The good news is that your journey from newcomer to seasoned ostomate carer can take as long as you like. Let’s start at the beginning by explaining the types of stoma and the pouches used to give post-stoma surgery ostomates freedom to enjoy their lifestyle.

What is a stoma?

A stoma is made when part of the bowel is brought outside the body through a small surgical opening on the abdomen. It’s created to divert waste from the body and will look circular or oval and pink. It has no nerve endings, so it should not feel painful to the touch.

After the operation when someone has to have a stoma, waste will pass from the body through the stoma, and is collected in a pouch worn on the abdomen.

Colostomy

Where: Formed from the colon, also known as the large intestine.

Output: Generally paste-like to semi-formed.

Ileostomy

Where: From the ileum, also known as the small intestine.

Output: Usually quite liquid in consistency.

Urostomy

Where: Formed by joining a small section of the ileum to the ureters.

Output: urine and possibly some mucus.

What types of pouches are available?

Your loved one will need to wear a pouch to collect the waste from their stoma.

The pouch is attached to their body by a ‘baseplate’ and comes in two types: one-piece and two-piece.

As a stoma changes you may find the original products prescribed don’t fit just as well. You have control to change the pouch or add accessories to ensure a comfortable and secure routine.

• One-piece pouching systems

What does it look like: A pouch with a ‘baseplate’ on the back to attach to the ostomate’s body.

How does it work: When changing the pouch, the whole system is removed and replaced.

• Two-piece pouching systems

What does it look like: A pouch with a large opening and a separate baseplate.

How does it work: The pouch can be changed without the need to remove the baseplate.

• Drainable pouches

What does it look like: A longer design with an opening at the bottom of the pouch.

How does it work: Designed for ileostomates and those with a more liquid output, can be emptied and resealed.

• Closed pouches

What does it look like: A smaller pouch with no opening to drain output.

How does it work: Retains the entire output, generally for people with a colostomy, as the output is more formed.

• Urostomy pouches

What does it look like: A pouch with a ‘tap’ design.

How does it work: Helps those with a urostomy stoma as its tap can be opened and closed for easy drainage.

You’ll also see pouches described as having a ‘flat baseplate’ or ‘convex baseplate’. This simply means that a flat design is best suited to someone with a protruding stoma while a convex baseplate pushes down on the stoma to help it protrude as this helps to prevent leaks.

You can browse eakin® ostomy pouches by type of stoma here to familiarise yourself with the options available.

Where to find help

Questions? To support you as much as possible we have created a leaflet dedicated to carers, for friends and family caring for ostomates. It aims to help you to understand what happens during and after stoma surgery and give practical tips on how you can help your loved one. You can download it here.

For more support simply speak to your stoma care nurse or our care team.