How to live well with an ostomy

Health Letter Article
©GettyImages

An ostomy is a surgically created opening in your abdomen that allows waste or urine to leave your body. The waste collects in a bag or pouch.

You may have many questions about this new change in your body. Can you go back to work? Ride your bike? Will everyone know you have an ostomy just by looking at you?

Don’t worry — for most people, life can go back to normal after ostomy surgery. Here’s what Mayo Clinic experts want you to know.

Discover Health Letters

Get full access to reliable information for a healthier life:

  • Insights from over 3,700 physicians
  • Deep dives into serious & complex conditions
  • Curated latest medical research

Subscriptions available at $9.99/year

Discover more Living Well content from articles, podcasts, to videos.

View Living Well

Discover Health Letters

Get full access to reliable information for a healthier life:

  • Insights from over 3,700 physicians
  • Deep dives into serious & complex conditions
  • Curated latest medical research

Subscriptions available at $9.99/year

"The Health Letter is my go-to for clear, trustworthy information. It helps me ask smarter questions at my doctor visits."

Discover More