An Ostomy is surgical DIVERSION. It is an opening for passage of Stool, Urine, etc. when natural passage is damaged, obstructed or diseased. Ostomy means an opening and it is a Greek word 'Osteum' meaning mouth. It is of two types: Temporary & Permanent

• Odor, Ballooning & Lubrication: Use bags with charcoal filter or pin puncture and sticker patch for releasing gas. After draining contents, add in pouch charcoal tablets or oxidizing solution or few drops of mouth wash lotion for reducing bad odor. In case of Sigmoid / descending colostomy, lubricate pouch by putting few drops of common use household vegetable oil (Mustard, sunflower, etc.)
• Emptying of Pouch and Disposal: Drain out the pouch in toilet / kidney tray when 1/3 is filled. Change pouch periodically. Wash pouch thoroughly and discard in a plastic bag and dispose off in medical / hazardous waste.
• Clothing : You can use the same clothes as before the surgery.
• Bathing: With an ostomy, you can shower or both, just as you did before. If you are taking the bath along with the appliance, We suggest the use of plastic wrap over the appliance. You may also swim with a use of special mini cap, both in sea and in public swimming pools.
• Sexual relationships: People tend to believe that a colostomy will be a barrier to a normal sex life, but you should be aware not to create a false problem, You can enjoy just as natural sex life as before the surgery. Before sexual intercourse you may change to a smaller size of bag or use a special mini cap to cover stoma.
• Travel: An ostomy needs not prevent you from travelling. But to be on safer side, you should carry extra bags and accessories for emergencies.

Diet:

• Take small regular meals, preferably a balanced diet.
• Gradually try to figure out what is ok and what to avoid in diet.
• Eat slowly and chew your food well with mouth closed.
• Avoid chewing gum and use of straw while drinking.
• Smoking and alcohol are injurious to health.
• Prepare own diet chart or ask a dietician.