Ostomy: Adapting to life after colostomy, ileostomy or urostomyLearn all you can about life with an ostomy. Use this information to boost your self-esteem and help you adapt to your ostomy.By Mayo Clinic Staff ColostomyColostomyColostomyIn some cases, after the surgeon removes a portion of the colon, it may be necessary to attach the remaining colon to the outside of the body in a procedure called colostomy. Creating a hole (stoma) in the abdominal wall allows waste to leave the body. A colostomy bag attaches to the stoma to collect the waste.It takes time to become comfortable with an ostomy — a surgically created opening in your abdomen that allows waste or urine to leave your body.Many questions may run through your mind as you plan your first ventures outside of your home. Can you go back to work after colostomy? Can you ride your bike if you have an ileostomy? Will everyone figure out you've had urostomy surgery just by looking at you?You can do many of the same activities you enj...
