Basics
What is a colostomy?
A clear, evidence-based explanation of what a colostomy is, the different types, why surgeons create one, and what to expect during recovery and daily life.
May 15, 2026
From the editors
A trustworthy reference for life with an ostomy.
OstomyPedia is a plain-language, evidence-based encyclopedia for people living with a colostomy, ileostomy or urostomy — and the nurses who support them. Every article is medically reviewed by a named, credentialed stoma care professional.
Editors' selection
All articles →-
Basics
What is a urostomy?
An evidence-based guide to what a urostomy is, why it is created, the most common type (ileal conduit), and what daily life looks like after one.
May 15, 2026
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Basics
What is an ileostomy?
An evidence-based guide to what an ileostomy is, why it is created, how it differs from a colostomy, and what to expect during recovery and daily life.
May 15, 2026
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Skin Care
Barrier Creams, Films and Sprays for Peristomal Skin
Neutral guide to barrier creams, films and sprays for peristomal skin, including adhesion, cautions and when to seek nurse advice.
September 12, 2026
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Living With Ostomy
Colonoscopy and Endoscopy With an Ostomy
How colonoscopy, ileoscopy and pouchoscopy are done with a colostomy, ileostomy or urostomy, including preparation, what to expect and aftercare.
September 12, 2026
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Ostomy basics
What an ostomy is, the different types, and what to expect from surgery and recovery.
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Living with an ostomy
Daily life, work, relationships, intimacy, confidence.
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Diet & nutrition
Foods, hydration, blockage prevention, fluid balance.
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Skin & stoma care
Preventing irritation, treating leaks, choosing the right barrier.
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Ostomy care & products
Pouching systems, belts, accessories — explained without brand bias.
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Complications
Warning signs and when to seek medical help.
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Emotional support
Mental health, body image, peer-support communities.
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Travel & exercise
Sport, swimming, flying, holidays — practical guidance.
Most recent
Latest articles
- Skin Care September 12, 2026
Barrier Creams, Films and Sprays for Peristomal Skin
Neutral guide to barrier creams, films and sprays for peristomal skin, including adhesion, cautions and when to seek nurse advice.
- Living With Ostomy September 12, 2026
Colonoscopy and Endoscopy With an Ostomy
How colonoscopy, ileoscopy and pouchoscopy are done with a colostomy, ileostomy or urostomy, including preparation, what to expect and aftercare.
- Basics September 12, 2026
Colostomy Reversal: What to Expect
What to expect from colostomy reversal, including suitability, surgery, recovery, bowel changes and risks. Ask your stoma care nurse.
- Products Guides September 12, 2026
Convex vs Flat Ostomy Appliances: When Convexity Helps
When a convex ostomy baseplate may seal better than a flat one, who it suits, and why a stoma care nurse should guide the choice.
- Travel Exercise September 12, 2026
Cycling and Riding a Bike After Ostomy Surgery
Most people can cycle again after ostomy surgery. Covers timing, hernia risk, pouch security, hydration and bike fit, with clinician advice.
- Basics September 12, 2026
Defunctioning (Diverting) Stomas Explained
What a defunctioning (diverting) stoma is, why it is formed, loop ileostomy versus colostomy, daily life, reversal and risks.
- Basics September 12, 2026
Double-Barrel Colostomy and Ileostomy Explained
A clear guide to double-barrel colostomy and ileostomy: two stomas, mucous fistulas, how they differ from loop and end stomas, and reversal.
- Products Guides September 12, 2026
Drainable vs Closed Ostomy Pouches
Compare drainable and closed ostomy pouches: how they work, who they suit, daily care, and when to ask your stoma nurse.
- Diet Nutrition September 12, 2026
Fasting With an Ostomy, Including Ramadan
Fasting with a colostomy, ileostomy or urostomy is sometimes possible but not always safe. Risks, Ramadan and when to seek advice.
- Products Guides September 12, 2026
Flange Extenders and Barrier Strips
Neutral clinical guide to ostomy flange extenders and barrier strips, including uses, limits, skin cautions and when to see a stoma care nurse.
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OstomyPedia is reviewed by named, credentialed stoma care nurses and shaped by the lived experience of people with an ostomy. If that's you, we'd love your input.