Ostomy Education

Trusted Information for Every Stage

Whether you’re preparing for ostomy surgery, adjusting to a new stoma, or looking for answers years later, United Ostomy Associations of America (UOAA) can help you find your next step. Explore practical ostomy education, surgery-specific guides, personal stories, and opportunities to learn from the ostomy community.

Living With an Ostomy

Questions about everyday life are common after surgery. Start with Living with an Ostomy for answers to frequently asked questions, then explore topics that matter to you:

You can also read personal stories and find an ostomy support group to connect with people who understand the experience.

New Ostomy Patient Education

Facing surgery or learning to care for a new ostomy can feel overwhelming. You don’t have to learn everything at once. These resources offer a place to begin:

Education by Surgery Type

The type of surgery you have affects the questions you may need to ask and the care you’ll learn. Explore UOAA’s information about temporary ostomies and these surgery types:

woman with an ostomy

For materials you can save, print, or share, visit the UOAA Resources Library. You can also browse ostomy education resources in Spanish.

Keep Learning and Stay Connected

Ostomy education continues well beyond recovery. UOAA offers ways to ask new questions, hear from others, and discover resources as your needs change.

Ostomy Academy offers free online educational presentations featuring healthcare professionals, experts, and people with lived experience. Watch past sessions or learn about upcoming topics.

Ostomy articles cover daily care, exercise, clothing, caregiving, patient experiences, and more.

UOAA’s e-newsletter shares education, news, and events. You can also become a UOAA National Member to support the ostomy community.

UOAA’s National Conference brings people with ostomies and continent diversions, caregivers, and healthcare professionals together for education and connection.

UOAA’s Ostomy Marketplace helps you explore ostomy products, suppliers, accessories, clothing, and related services.

Education works best alongside support and individualized care. Stay in touch with your ostomy nurse or healthcare team for advice about your surgery, stoma, skin, and supplies. UOAA’s resources can help you prepare questions and take an active role in your care.