Who Needs Ostomy Bag？

2025-11-18
Author: Zodelo Ostomy

The ostomy bag is not a constraint on life, but an important tool to help patients start a new life. Many people may wonder exactly who needs an ostomy bag? Simply put, patients who have undergone stoma surgery need ostomy bag. However, it is necessary to analyze the specific who needs ostomy bag based on the specific cause of the disease, surgical method and nursing method.

Zodelo is well aware of the crucial role of ostomy bags for ostomy patients. Therefore, we take customer experience as the benchmark and are committed to developing the highest quality and safest Ostomy bags to enable all patients to lead the most comfortable and confident life. Meanwhile, Zodelo also provides you with the most comprehensive and detailed knowledge of stoma care and ostomy care. This article will provide you with a detailed analysis of the who needs ostomy bag.

What is an ostomy?

To understand who needs ostomy bag, one first needs to understand what is an ostomy. Ostomy is a surgical procedure that involves creating a stoma in a patient’s abdomen. ostomy is required when patients suffer from intestinal or anal lesions, trauma or are born unable to use the device normally. The doctor will remove a part of the colon from the body and connect it to the abdominal wall to form a stoma. Feces and urine can then be expelled from the body through the stoma and flow into the ostomy bag. Thus replacing the normal excretory function.

What are the most common types of ostomies?

Who needs ostomy bag? The ostomy bags required by different types of stoma patients vary.

Colostomy:Its opening is located in the colon area. It is mostly used for colorectal cancer, ischemia/perforation and chronic inflammatory lesions. Excrement is usually formed and the frequency of defecation is relatively low. You can choose a closed ostomy bag, which can be replaced directly at one time, making it more convenient and hygienic.
Ileostomy:The opening is located at the end of the small intestine (ileum). It is commonly seen in inflammatory bowel disease, congenital malformations, and low rectal protective shunt. Excrement is mostly in liquid form. A better leak-proof system and skin protection measures are needed.
Urostomy: Mostly Ileal Conduit. It is used for bladder cancer, severe neurogenic bladder, bladder injury after radiotherapy, etc. Continuous urination is achieved through the stoma after the operation. Special urostomy bags and night drainage bags with anti-backflow valves are required.

What is an ostomy bag?

To understand who needs ostomy bag, it is necessary to understand what is an ostomy bag. The Ostomy bag is a medical collection bag specifically designed to receive feces and urine discharged from the stoma. Some patients, due to inflammation or cancer in the anorectal area, external trauma or congenital diseases, are unable to use the intestinal excretion function normally. Therefore, they need to undergo stoma surgery to create a stoma in the abdomen to replace the original excretion function. After the operation, the ostomy bag needs to be fixed on the skin around the stoma to receive the excrement discharged from the stoma. The Ostomy bag can effectively protect the skin from being contaminated by excretory waste, while preventing leakage and odor.

The ostomy bag is usually composed of the bag body, skin barrier and bottom discharge port, and some are equipped with activated carbon filtration systems. Stoma bags can effectively collect feces, prevent excrement from contaminating and irritating the skin, and prevent leakage and odor. They are an indispensable part of the normal life of stoma patients.

Types of ostomy bags

Regarding the who needs ostomy bag, the ostomy bags required for different causes and stoma types also vary. The following are the types of colostomy pouches.

One piece ostomy bag: The skin barrier and the bag body cannot be separated. When replacing, the entire bag can be replaced, making it thinner, lighter and more comfortable. The operation is simple and quick, suitable for beginners or those who pursue simple operation.
Two piece ostomy bag: The wafer and the ostomy bag body are separated. The base can be adhered to the skin for multiple uses, and only the ostomy bag body needs to be replaced. There is no need to frequently change the chassis, which may irritate the skin. It is suitable for patients with frequent excretion or sensitive skin.
Drainable ostomy bag: The bottom of the ostomy bag has an open excretion port for discharging the excrement inside the ostomy It can be emptied and reused multiple times, which is more economical and practical. It is suitable for patients with loose stools or frequent or large bowel movements, such as those with ileostomy
Closed-endostomy bag: No discharge opening, for single use only, and discarded as a whole after use. It is more hygienic, easier to replace, and suitable for people with solid feces or regular excretion patterns, such as patients with ileostomy.
Urostomy bag: Specifically designed for urine excretion, it features an anti-reflux valve and a night drainage interface, making it suitable for patients with urinary tract stoma.

Who Needs Ostomy Bag?

When it comes to the who needs ostomy bag, the main user groups are patients after colostomy, ileostomy and urostomy surgeries. The ostomy bag can receive feces and urine discharged from the stoma. Effectively protect the skin from leakage and odor. Help stoma patients return to a normal life and regain confidence in living.

1. What are the most common reasons for a colostomy?

The most common causes of colostomy in patients include:

a. Colorectal cancer

After the removal of cancer, a temporary or permanent stoma is needed to help with healing.

b. Intestinal obstruction

It is commonly seen in tumors, fecal impaction and diverticulitis.

c. Complications of diverticulitis

In cases of perforation, abscess or fistula, part of the intestinal tract needs to be removed and a stoma established.

d. External damage

Colon rupture is caused by knife wounds, car accidents, gunshot wounds and stab wounds.

e. Congenital diseases

Children with congenital megacolon (Hirschsprung’s disease) may need a stoma at an early age.

2. What are the most common reasons for an ileostomy?

What are the most common reasons for an ileostomy?

The most common causes of Ileostomy patients are:

Ulcerative colitis

Ileostomy is often required after total colectomy.

Crohn’s Disease

There is no response to the drug, and intestinal stenosis, fistula and perforation occur.

Protective stoma after colorectal cancer surgery

To prevent anastomotic fistula, close it after the operation.

Hereditary intestinal diseases

Such as after surgery for familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP).

Intestinal necrosis and peritonitis

A temporary stoma taken to protect the patient’s life.

3. What is the most common reason for a urostomy?

Urostomy is mostly a urinary system diversion surgery. Make more use of the ileal segment to establish an ileal conduit to facilitate the excretion of urine from the body.

Bladder cancer

For muscle-invasive bladder cancer, a new urination pathway needs to be constructed after radical cystectomy.

Severe loss of bladder function

For neurogenic bladder, urostomy is needed to maintain normal excretion.

Severe urethral injury or scar stenosis

urostomy is needed to replace the original excretory function.

Congenital urinary system malformations

Such as bladder eversion.

The Differences between Ileostomy, Colostomy and Urostomy

When we need to understand who needs ostomy bag, we also need to know the differences between ilostomy, Colostomy and Urostomy. For specific differences, please refer to the following table:

Dimension	Colostomy	Ileostomy	Urostomy
Location	Colon (Large intestine)	Terminal ileum (Small intestine)	Ureters + Segment of small intestine
Output Characteristics	Formed or semi-formed stool	Thin or liquid stool, contains digestive enzymes	Urine
Frequency of Output	1–3 times per day	6–8 times per day or more	Continuous urine drainage
Main Care Focus	Odor control, leak prevention	Prevent skin damage, maintain hydration	Prevent reflux, prevent infection
Common Indications	Colorectal cancer, diverticulitis	Inflammatory bowel disease, congenital anomalies	Bladder cancer, cystectomy
Ostomy Bag Type	Closed ostomy bag / Drainable ostomy bag	Drainable ostomy bag only	Specialized urostomy pouch

What are the benefits of having an ostomy?

Regarding the who needs ostomy bag, we also need to know the benefits of having an ostomy

Save lives: Prevent intestinal perforation and sepsis. Effectively prevent fecal contamination of the abdominal cavity and reduce the risk of fatal peritonitis. It can quickly relieve life-threatening conditions caused by intestinal obstruction and tumor compression.
Maintain normal physiological functions:Help patients have normal excretory functions and ensure the normal metabolic functions of the body.
Help with recovery:It can temporarily divert feces after the operation, effectively preventing excrement from contaminating the wound, and avoiding infection and inflammation.
Improving quality of life:ostomy surgery can replace the original effective method to help patients control excretion, avoid excretion pollution and odor, make daily life more reassuring and comfortable, and help restore confidence.

What are the possible risks or complications of having an ostomy?

Regarding the who needs ostomy bag, we also need to know the risks of having an ostomy

Bleeding: The stoma may bleed after the operation.

Infection and inflammation: If not properly cared for, it may lead to infection and inflammation of the skin around the stoma, causing redness, swelling, itching and ulceration.

Intestinal obstruction:Postoperative intestinal adhesion or twisting can lead to recurrent intestinal obstruction
Stoma necrosis:Insufficient blood supply or excessive stoma tension may lead to stoma necrosis.
Anesthesia-related risks:such as cardiopulmonary complications, intraoperative hypotension, etc., especially the elderly or patients with comorbidities are at high risk.

How to change an ostomy bag?

Regarding the who needs ostomy bag, we also need to know how to change an ostomy bag.

Step 1: Prepare the necessary items and choose a suitable location

Prepare the required items: a new ostomy bag system, wet wipes or soft tissues, warm water, measurement cards, ostomy scissors, glue remover, ostomy powder, sealing rings, and leak-proof ointment. Then choose a bright and clean place for replacement.

Step 2: Wash your hands

Before replacement, wash your hands thoroughly to keep them clean and avoid contaminating the stoma and causing infection during the process

Step 3: Remove the old ostomy bag

Hold the skin with one hand and gently remove the adhered base from top to bottom. If the glue is stuck too firmly, you can use a glue remover spray.

Discard the old ostomy bag.

Step 3: Observe the stoma

A normal stoma should be bright red and moist. If the color is incorrect or there is erosion, exudation or other conditions, one should go to the hospital for medical treatment in time

Step 4: Clean the skin around the stoma

Gently wipe the stoma with warm water and a soft towel until it is clean

Wait for the stoma to dry or use it in combination with stoma powder

Step 5: Measure the diameter of the stoma

Measure the stoma with a measuring card to determine its diameter

Step 6: Cutting

Based on the measured diameter, the opening diameter of the cutting base needs to be increased by 1-2mm. Confirm that the cutting edge is smooth and flat

Step 7: Paste the skin barrier

Remove the skin barrier backing and gently press against the stoma

Check for any wrinkles or curled edges around to ensure a firm and seamless bond

Step 8: Organize the discharge outlet

Empty the bottom of the bag, fold it and fasten the clips or Velcro tightly to ensure a seal and prevent leakage.

How often does an ostomy bag need to be emptied or replaced?

Regarding who needs ostomy bag, it is essential to replace the ostomy bag in time.

One piece ostomy bag: The skin barrier cannot be separated from the bag body. It is generally recommended to replace it every 1 to 3 days.
Twp piece ostomy bag: The wafer is separated from the bag body and can be adhered to the skin for 3 to 5 days. The bag body can be replaced separately as needed.
Drainable ostomy bag: The replacement frequency depends on the patient’s own condition. Generally, more than half of the excrement in the bag needs to be emptied.
Closed-end ostomy bag: Single-use. When the bag is full of excrement, replace and discard it as a whole.

Living with a colostomy bag

1. Can you still go swimming and exercise with an ostomy bag?

Yes. When the stoma is fully recovered, useful exercises can be carried out. However, sealing and protective measures need to be taken in advance.No matter who needs ostomy bag, exercise with an ostomy bag is indispensable.

Practical tips:

A one-piece small-capacity ostomy bag can be used. Which is more lightweight, preventing the ostomy bag from being too heavy and falling off. It is also simpler and faster to replace.
It can be used in combination with leak-proof accessories.Such as leak-proof rings, leak-proof pastes, and reinforced belts, to prevent hernias, enhance sealing performance, and avoid loosening and leakage during movement.
Before exercising, the excrement and gas in the colostomy bag should be drained in time to prevent the bag from becoming loose and leaking due to excessive weight.
Prepare spare ostomy bags and ostomy cleaning and care products in advance in case of emergency.
However, it should be noted that the range of motion during exercise should not be too large, and after exercising, it is necessary to check in time whether the edges are lifted and leaking due to sweating or whether the ostomy bags are swollen due to active intestinal peristalsis.

2. Can you have sex with an ostomy bag?

Stoma patients can have a normal and happy sex life, and stoma will not affect physiological functions. However, some patients may experience a sense of shame or anxiety due to stoma, worrying that their partners cannot accept it.No matter who needs ostomy bag, sex with an ostomy bag is indispensable.

Practical tips:

It is necessary to communicate more with your partner, reduce psychological burden, and build a sense of security and intimacy.

When having sex, a small-capacity ostomy bag can be used, which is light, thin and comfortable.

Pay attention to your posture and force. Avoid improper posture or excessive force that may cause friction at the stoma and damage the skin. At the same time, it may cause pressure and lead to leakage and shedding.

How do you shower with an ostomy bag?

No matter who needs ostomy bag, shower with an ostomy bag is indispensable.

Shower with an ostomy bag: Change or empty the ostomy bag in advance before taking a bath. When replacing, use anti-leak paste and sealing rings in combination to enhance the sealing performance. You can choose the waterproof ostomy bag cover to better protect the ostomy bag. Be careful to avoid using hot water or water with excessive pressure to impact the stoma.
Shower without an ostomy bag:Be careful to gently clean the stoma with a gentle water flow to avoid damage to the stoma due to excessive water pressure or high water temperature. urostomy is generally not recommended for bagless showers because the duration of urination is stronger. Avoid using cleaning products containing alcohol or fragrance for cleaning, as this may irritate the stoma. After washing, it is necessary to wait until the skin around the stoma is completely dry before adhering the skin barrier.

Where can patients buy ostomy supplies?

Zodelo, founded in 1998, is a professional ostomy bag manufacturer integrating R&D, production, sales and service. With 30 years of industry accumulation, international certification, innovative R&D, as well as the trust and support of users, Zodelo has now become a leading brand in the field of stoma care products in China. And it has passed ISO 13485, CE and FDA certifications, and holds 50 patents. Zodelo offers a full range of products from entry-level to high-end, as well as stoma care accessories, to meet the needs of everyone. Zodelo ostomy products enjoy a global reputation and are widely recognized around the world. Regardless of who needs to stomy bag. It is the best choice for global hospitals, pharmacies, home care product distributors, as well as bulk purchasers and home users.

Main Products:

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FAQS about Who Needs Ostomy Bag

Q1. Is an ostomy temporary?

Stoma can be either temporary or permanent.

Temporary ostomy is suitable for certain inflammatory bowel diseases or intestinal repair surgeries. A stoma will be temporarily established. Once the intestinal function recovers, the normal intestinal function will be restored.
Permanent ostomy is applicable to some irreparable colorectal cancers or intestinal necrosis. It requires the removal of the diseased intestine, and the stoma becomes a permanent outlet for excrement discharge. Therefore, colostomy bags need to be worn for life.

Q2. Are ostomy bags permanent?

Not necessarily. The Ostomy bag does not need to be worn permanently. The key lies in the type of stoma.

Temporary ostomy: It is mostly used in emergencies such as intestinal perforation or intestinal obstruction to protect intestinal healing. It can be closed during subsequent surgery, and the patient can resume natural defecation.
Permanent ostomy: It is often seen in cases where low resection of rectal cancer fails to preserve the anus and the function of the anal sphincter is lost

Or extremely severe intestinal diseases (such as recurrent Crohn’s disease). Regarding who needs ostomy bag. It is impossible to restore normal intestinal and excretory functions throughout one’s life, so it is also necessary to wear the ostomy bag for life.

Q3. Do ostomy bags leak?

The reason why Ostomy Bag Keeps Leaking:

Failure to empty in time: Failure to empty in time will cause the bag to be overly full and heavy, leading to leakage.
The opening of the chassis is too large or too small: The size of the opening of the chassis should be 1-2mm larger than the diameter of the stoma to prevent leakage.
Poor underbody fit: Depression around the stoma or wrinkles on the skin.
There are water stains or other contaminants on the skin: It affects the adhesion of the chassis and makes it prone to peeling off.

Solution

Remeasure the size of the stoma: At the same time, remeasure the diameter of the stoma, cut the chassis and make sure the opening size is 1-2mm larger than the stoma size.
Use leak-proof products such as leak-proof rings and leak-proof pastes to enhance the adhesion between the base and the skin and improve the sealing performance.
Select the appropriate chassis: The stoma should be flush with the skin, and a flat chassis should be chosen. When the stoma is concave, choose a convex chassis.
To change the style of the bag: You can contact a professional doctor and, based on your specific condition and living habits, modify the bag style or choose a more adhesive base
Increase the frequency of replacement: Avoid leakage due to the bag being too full of contents.

Conclusion - Who Needs Ostomy Bag

Understanding the who needs ostomy bag is also a better way to understand how to better care for ostomy. Regardless of who needs, Zodelo has always held a belief: to reduce users’ troubles and enhance their comfort and confidence. Zodelo will always be by your side, providing you with the most comfortable, safe and reassuring ostomy care products.

Among many of the top ostomy bag manufacturers in the world. Zodelo has become the first choice for many customers with 30 years of industry accumulation, professional customization capabilities, strong R&D and production strength, as well as brand culture. Regardless of who needs to stomy bag, we are your best choice.

Get our product catalog or request an instant quote.

More Resourses:

Ostomy: Adapting to life after colostomy, ileostomy or urostomy– mayoclinic
Ostomy– clevelandclinic
Ostomy Tips and Tricks– crohnscolitisfoundation
What does it feel like to have an Ostomy Bag?– urmc.rochester
Colostomy Care— ncbi
A Guide to Ostomy Bags and Pouching Systems— uchicagomedicine
Where To Buy Colostomy Bag– zodelo
Top 10 Colostomy Bag Manufacturers And Suppliers In China 2026– zodelo

Who Needs Ostomy Bag？

Table of Contents

What is an ostomy?