The Discreet Stoma

A stoma with good blood flow has a pink, soft, and moist intestinal mucosa. Since a stoma has no nerve endings, it does not cause pain. After surgery, the stoma mucosa is often still swollen; the stoma’s final size does not stabilize until several weeks later. Mild bleeding from the mucosa may occur during stoma cleaning. Short-term discoloration and bleeding are harmless. If bleeding persists, pain occurs, or there is noticeable discoloration, contact your treating physician.

The stoma is not a wound and does not require sterile care. Patients can shower with or without a stoma bag.