What is a stoma?
A stoma is a surgically created opening in the abdominal wall that allows stool or urine to leave the body. A pouching system is attached to the stoma to collect the stool or urine.
There are different types of stomas, including:
- Colostomy (large intestine)
- Ileostomy (small intestine)
- Urostomy (urinary tract)
A stoma can be temporary or permanent, depending on the underlying condition and treatment.
Most people can largely resume their daily activities after the recovery period. However, the abdominal wall around the stoma may be more vulnerable to strain, pressure, or the development of a hernia.
Common complaints with a stoma
Although many people learn to live well with a stoma, complaints can develop around the stoma or abdominal wall.
Common complaints include:
- Sensitivity around the stoma
- Fatigue of the abdominal muscles
- Abdominal wall weakness
- Pressure around the stoma
- Discomfort during movement
- Complaints during sports activities
- Complaints during heavy lifting
- Parastomal hernia
- Reduced support of the abdominal wall
- Fear of overloading the abdominal wall
Additional support may be helpful, especially during activities that increase abdominal pressure.
What is a parastomal hernia?
One of the most common complications of a stoma is a parastomal hernia, also known as a stoma hernia. This occurs when abdominal tissue protrudes next to or around the stoma due to a weakened abdominal wall.
A parastomal hernia may cause:
- A visible bulge around the stoma
- A feeling of pressure in the abdomen
- Pain or discomfort
- Difficulty wearing or fitting the stoma appliance
- Limitations during everyday activities
Not every parastomal hernia requires immediate surgery. In many cases, a supportive stoma belt or abdominal binder can help reduce discomfort.
Which products can provide support?
Many people with a stoma choose additional support for the abdominal area. A stoma support belt or abdominal binder can help distribute pressure more evenly across the abdominal wall and provide extra stability.
A stoma support belt may provide support for:
- A stoma
- Parastomal hernia (stoma hernia)
- A weakened abdominal wall
- Everyday activities
- Physically demanding work
- Sports and exercise
- Preventive support for the abdominal wall
Most stoma support belts feature an opening for the stoma appliance and are designed to be worn comfortably underneath clothing.
Living with a stoma
After the recovery period, most people can return to almost all of their daily activities. Walking, cycling, working, and exercising are often possible again. It is important to gradually increase the load on the abdominal muscles and build up strenuous activities carefully.
During activities that place increased pressure on the abdomen, additional abdominal support can provide greater comfort and confidence.
