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
-
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
-
Products Guides
Barrier rings, pastes, powders and adhesive removers
The best ostomy skin barrier rings, pastes, powders, adhesives and adhesive removers compared, with typical prices and when each one actually helps.
September 4, 2026
-
Products Guides
Ostomy bags and pouches
The best ostomy bags compared: leak prevention, convexity, sensitive skin, wear time and cost. How Coloplast, Hollister and ConvaTec pouches differ.
September 4, 2026
Browse
Explore by section
-
Ostomy basics
What an ostomy is, the different types, and what to expect from surgery and recovery.
-
Living with an ostomy
Daily life, work, relationships, intimacy, confidence.
-
Diet & nutrition
Foods, hydration, blockage prevention, fluid balance.
-
Skin & stoma care
Preventing irritation, treating leaks, choosing the right barrier.
-
Ostomy care & products
Pouching systems, belts, accessories — explained without brand bias.
-
Complications
Warning signs and when to seek medical help.
-
Emotional support
Mental health, body image, peer-support communities.
-
Travel & exercise
Sport, swimming, flying, holidays — practical guidance.
Most recent
Latest articles
- Products Guides September 4, 2026
Barrier rings, pastes, powders and adhesive removers
The best ostomy skin barrier rings, pastes, powders, adhesives and adhesive removers compared, with typical prices and when each one actually helps.
- Products Guides September 4, 2026
Ostomy bags and pouches
The best ostomy bags compared: leak prevention, convexity, sensitive skin, wear time and cost. How Coloplast, Hollister and ConvaTec pouches differ.
- Products Guides September 4, 2026
Ostomy odour control and deodorants
The best ostomy odour eliminators compared: pouch deodorants, lubricating drops, oral tablets and room sprays, with what each actually does and typical prices.
- Products Guides September 4, 2026
Ostomy supply companies
The best ostomy supply companies compared: insurance and Medicare cover, delivery speed, product range, samples and service, in the US and the UK.
- Living With Ostomy September 1, 2026
Driving and Seatbelts With a Stoma
Can you drive with a stoma? Learn when it's safe to return to driving, how to wear a seatbelt comfortably, and what to discuss with your stoma care nurse.
- Travel Exercise August 31, 2026
An Ostomy Supplies Checklist for Travel
A complete ostomy supplies checklist for travel, covering pouching systems, skin care, documentation, and practical packing tips for confident journeys.
- Travel Exercise August 29, 2026
Long-Haul Travel With an Ostomy
Flying long-haul or travelling abroad with an ostomy is entirely achievable with careful preparation. This guide covers supplies, airports, diet and more.
- Living With Ostomy August 29, 2026
Living With an Ostomy in Cold Weather
Cold weather affects ostomy pouches, skin, and output. Learn how to protect your stoma system in winter and when to seek clinical advice.
- Diet Nutrition August 28, 2026
Alcohol and Your Ostomy: What to Know
Can you drink alcohol with a colostomy, ileostomy or urostomy? Learn how alcohol affects output, hydration and pouch management, with expert guidance.
- Travel Exercise August 28, 2026
Going to the Beach With an Ostomy
Everything you need to know about visiting the beach with a colostomy, ileostomy, or urostomy — pouching, swimming, skin care, and confidence tips.
Join the wiki
A reference is only as good as the people who write it.
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.