+ -Text Size


Living with a urostomy

Learning to live with a urostomy may seem like a big challenge, but it will get easier over time. Just as with any life change, having a positive outlook, patience, and a sense of humor are key.


Your social life can be as active as it was before surgery. You can enjoy all the things you did before, such as travel, sporting events, and eating at restaurants. The first time you go out of the house after surgery, you may feel as if everyone is staring at your pouch even though it can’t be seen under your clothes. Remember, you may feel the pouch on your body, but no one can see it.

You may also worry about your pouch filling with urine and bulging under your clothes. A quick trip to the rest room can take care of this problem. You are likely to find that you need to empty your pouch about as often as you needed to urinate before.

Last Medical Review: 12/02/2014
Last Revised: 12/02/2014