Knowledge Is the First Step to Living Well With a Stoma
Whether you are a new patient, a caregiver, a healthcare professional, or simply someone who wants to understand more — this hub provides clear, accessible information about ostomies in the East African context.
EACOA is committed to reducing stigma and improving outcomes through education. Explore the sections below to learn about what an ostomy is, the different types, how to care for a stoma, and how to live a full and confident life.
What is an Ostomy?
An ostomy is a surgical procedure that creates an opening (called a stoma) in the abdominal wall. This opening allows waste — either stool or urine — to exit the body into an external pouch called an ostomy bag or appliance.
Ostomies are performed when a part of the digestive or urinary system is diseased, damaged, or removed. Common reasons include colorectal cancer, Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, bladder cancer, trauma, or birth defects.
An ostomy may be temporary (to allow the bowel to heal) or permanent (when a section of the bowel or bladder has been removed).
Important to Know
People with ostomies are called ostomates. An ostomy does not prevent someone from working, travelling, exercising, or living a full and productive life. With the right support and supplies, ostomates can thrive.
Types of Ostomies
Colostomy
Large intestine (colon)
A colostomy is created from part of the large intestine (colon). The stoma diverts solid stool out of the body before it reaches the rectum.
- Most common type of ostomy in East Africa
- Often the result of colorectal cancer surgery
- Can be temporary or permanent
- Stoma is typically on the left side of the abdomen
Common causes: Colorectal cancer, diverticular disease, bowel obstruction, Hirschsprung's disease
Ileostomy
Small intestine (ileum)
An ileostomy is formed from the small intestine (ileum). It diverts liquid stool before it enters the colon.
- Output is more liquid than a colostomy
- Stoma is usually on the right side of the abdomen
- Requires more careful hydration management
- Can be temporary to allow the colon to heal
Common causes: Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, familial polyposis, bowel cancer
Urostomy
Urinary system
A urostomy redirects urine out of the body when the bladder is removed or cannot function normally.
- Urine drains continuously into the ostomy bag
- A special drainable bag is used at night
- Usually permanent
- Stoma is typically on the right side
Common causes: Bladder cancer, bladder injury, neurogenic bladder, birth defects
Living With a Stoma
Life with a stoma takes adjustment, but many ostomates go on to live healthy, active, and fulfilling lives. Below are key areas of daily life and how to navigate them with confidence.
Changing Your Ostomy Bag
- Change your appliance every 3–5 days, or sooner if leaking
- Always change in a warm, well-lit place
- Clean the stoma and surrounding skin with warm water
- Allow skin to dry completely before applying a new seal
- Check the stoma for any colour changes or swelling
When to Seek Help
- Stoma turns dark purple or black
- Persistent skin irritation or rash around the stoma
- Unusual odour or bleeding that won't stop
- No output for more than 4–6 hours (ileostomy)
- Signs of infection (swelling, heat, pus)
General Guidelines
- Eat regular, well-balanced meals
- Chew food thoroughly and eat slowly
- Drink at least 6–8 glasses of water daily
- Introduce new foods one at a time
- Keep a food diary to track reactions
Foods to Be Mindful Of
- Gas-producing foods: beans, cabbage, carbonated drinks
- High-fibre foods may cause blockages (ileostomy)
- Spicy foods may increase output
- Some foods may affect odour
- Consult a dietitian familiar with ostomy care
East Africa context: Common staple foods like ugali, matoke, and rice are generally well-tolerated. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalised dietary guidance.
- Always carry more supplies than you think you need
- Pack ostomy supplies in your hand luggage, never checked bags
- Carry a travel letter from your doctor explaining your ostomy
- Research toilet facilities at your destination in advance
- Stay hydrated, especially in hot East African climates
- Time zone changes may affect your bowel routine — plan accordingly
- Crossing borders: carry supplies in original packaging where possible
Returning to Work or School
- Most ostomates return to work or school within 4–8 weeks
- You are not required to disclose your ostomy to employers
- Identify accessible toilet facilities at your workplace
- Keep a small emergency kit at your desk or locker
Your Rights
- You have the right to reasonable adjustments at work
- Permanent colostomy may qualify for disability recognition in Kenya
- EACOA advocates for workplace inclusion across East Africa
- Contact EACOA if you need advocacy support
It is completely normal to feel grief, anxiety, or low self-esteem after ostomy surgery. These feelings often improve significantly over time with the right support.
Coping Strategies
- Connect with peer support groups and other ostomates
- Talk openly with family and trusted friends
- Seek counselling if you are struggling
- Focus on what your body can do, not limitations
- Set small, achievable goals for daily life
EACOA Can Help
- Connect you with ostomate peer mentors in your country
- Provide guidance on local mental health resources
- Link you with support groups and community networks
- Offer information to share with your family
Myths & Facts
Stigma around ostomies in East Africa is often fuelled by misinformation. Here are some of the most common myths — and the facts that counter them.
"An ostomy means you can never work or go to school again."
Most ostomates return to full-time work, school, and normal activities within weeks of surgery.
"People will always be able to smell your ostomy bag."
Modern ostomy appliances are designed to contain odour. With proper care and the right supplies, odour is rarely detectable.
"You cannot exercise or play sport with an ostomy."
Most sports and physical activities are possible with an ostomy. Many ostomates swim, run, and play football.
"An ostomy is a punishment or a curse."
An ostomy is a life-saving medical procedure. It gives people a second chance at life, dignity, and health.
"You can never travel or leave your home with an ostomy."
With the right preparation and supplies, ostomates can travel freely including internationally.
"Having an ostomy means your intimate life is over."
Many ostomates maintain loving, intimate relationships. Open communication and support from a stoma therapist can help greatly.
Ostomy Terminology
Understanding key terms helps patients, families, and healthcare workers communicate clearly. Below are common ostomy terms in English, Swahili, and French — the three main languages across East Africa.
| Term | Definition | 🇰🇪 Swahili | 🇫🇷 French |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ostomy | A surgical opening created to allow waste to exit the body | Ostomi | Stomie |
| Stoma | The actual opening on the abdomen through which waste exits | Tundu / Stoma | Stomie |
| Ostomate | A person who has an ostomy | Mtu mwenye ostomi | Stomisé(e) |
| Colostomy | Ostomy from the large intestine (colon) | Kolostomi | Colostomie |
| Ileostomy | Ostomy from the small intestine (ileum) | Ileostomi | Iléostomie |
| Urostomy | Ostomy that diverts urine from the bladder | Urostomi | Urostomie |
| Ostomy Bag / Pouch | The external pouch that collects waste from the stoma | Mfuko wa ostomi | Poche de stomie |
| Ostomy Appliance | The complete ostomy system including bag and wafer/flange | Vifaa vya ostomi | Appareillage de stomie |
| Wafer / Flange | The adhesive plate that sticks to the skin around the stoma | Beji ya ngozi | Plaque de base |
| Stoma Therapist | A trained nurse who specialises in ostomy care | Muuguzi wa stoma | Stomathérapeute |
| Peristomal Skin | The skin surrounding the stoma | Ngozi karibu na stoma | Peau péristomiale |
| Prolapse | When the stoma protrudes outward more than normal | Kutokeza kwa stoma | Prolapsus stomie |
Get Support
Find a Stoma Therapist
EACOA works with healthcare institutions across East Africa to connect ostomates with trained stoma care nurses. Contact us for a referral in your country.
Contact EACOAJoin a Support Group
Connect with other ostomates in your country through EACOA's network of member associations and support groups across Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, and beyond.
Find a GroupTalk to EACOA Directly
Have a question, need guidance, or want to share your story? Our team is here to listen and help.
You Are Not Alone in This Journey
EACOA is here to walk alongside every ostomate in East Africa. Whether you need supplies, information, peer connection, or advocacy — reach out and let us support you.
Contact Us