Colostomy: A Guide

This guide will help you better understand colostomy – what it is, why it's needed, how it affects the normal digestive system, and what changes it can bring to a person's life. Click on the topics below to get started.

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• Colostomy: A Guide
• What is a colostomy?
• The normal digestive system
• Types of colostomies
• Colostomy management
• Choosing a pouching system
• Changing the pouching system
• Irrigation (for descending and sigmoid colostomies only)
• Ordering and storing supplies
• Helpful hints
• Colostomy problems
• Hospitalization
• Living with a colostomy
• Telling others
• Clothing and appearance
• Eating and digestion
• Returning to work
• Intimacy and sexuality
• Exercise, play, and sports
• Travel
• For parents of children with colostomies
• Getting help, information, and support
• To learn more