CanMedDirect.ca Knowledge Centre
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October 14, 2026
If you're new to living with a urostomy, or preparing for surgery, it's natural to have questions about what day-to-day care actually looks like. A urostomy (sometimes called an ileal conduit) diverts urine out of the body after the bladder has been removed or bypassed, and caring for it involves a few things that are different from a colostomy or ileostomy. This guide, based on the United Ostomy Associations of America (UOAA) New Ostomy Patient Guide, covers the basics of pouching, early recovery, and what to watch for as you settle into a routine.
This article is for general information only and isn't a substitute for advice from your surgeon, urologist, or ostomy nurse. Your own care plan
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October 02, 2026
If you've recently had or are living with ostomy surgery, you may have heard the term "parastomal hernia" mentioned by your care team. It's one of the more common complications associated with having a stoma, but understanding what it is, why it happens, and what your options are can make it much less intimidating. This guide draws on the United Ostomy Associations of America's (UOAA) New Ostomy Patient Guide to walk through the basics of parastomal hernias — what they are, how they're managed, and when it's time to talk to your doctor.
This article is for general information only and isn't a substitute for advice from your doctor, surgeon, or ostomy care nurse. If you notice a bulge near your