This topic is about a person who had an emergency colostomy two years ago. Their stoma is quite small, about the size of a quarter, and is almost level with their abdomen. The stoma is a loop type, where the ascending colon opens on the left side and the descending colon on the right. Due to pressure from tight clothing, some stool is being diverted into the descending colon instead of going into the pouch. The person frequently empties their pouch and uses a cotton swab to remove stool from the descending side. They do not feel the need to pass stool rectally and are curious if stool is building up in the distal bowel or being redirected. They are seeking advice from others who might have experienced something similar.

Here are some helpful suggestions and insights:

1. Consult with medical professionals, such as your surgeon or stoma nurse, to rule out any complications and determine if a stoma revision or other intervention is necessary.

2. Consider using ostomy belt protectors, stoma guards, or waistband extenders to reduce clothing pressure on the stoma. This can help ensure that the output goes into the pouch and prevent it from being diverted down the distal limb.

3. It is common for small, slightly retracted loop colostomies to allow some stool to pass distally. In many cases, what bypasses the pouch exits through the rectum without causing harm.

4. Community members suggest clarifying the orientation of the stoma (patient’s right vs. mirror image) to better understand the anatomy before offering specific product or management advice.