Dealing with bulges

Understanding how a bulge can form after ostomy surgery and what to do when it appears allows you to react on time.

What causes a bulge to occur?

When your ostomy is formed, the end of your intestine is brought out through the abdominal muscle and out the abdominal wall. The creation of a stoma can weaken the abdominal wall allowing the bowel to push forward and form a bulge due to undue pressure. The size of the bulge varies from person to person. 

If you suspect you have a hernia, you should contact your Wound Ostomy Continence (WOC) Nurse immediately to avoid any complications associated with hernia formation.

When to call ostomy nurse

What do I do? When do I contact my nurse?

If the area around your ostomy changes, it is always a good idea to seek advice from your WOC Nurse. If you have pain or discomfort around your stoma, contact your WOC Nurse immediately.

Remember to use BodyCheck!

Using it regularly will help you make sure that you are using the pouching system that fits you best. Take me to BodyCheck.

Information from Coloplast Care is for educational purposes only. It is not intended to substitute for professional medical advice and should not be interpreted to contain treatment recommendations.

You should rely on the healthcare professional who knows your individual history for personal medical advice and diagnosis.

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