Understanding mucus in a urostomy pouch can be a bit puzzling at first, but it's a common experience for many people with a urostomy. Here's a simple explanation and some helpful tips to make sense of it all.
- The mucus you see in your urostomy bag is produced by the segment of bowel tissue used to create the stoma. This is completely normal and will continue for the life of the stoma.
- This mucus is not coming from the urine. Instead, it's a natural secretion from the stoma itself, acting as a lubricant and protective layer for the intestinal lining.
- Generally, there's no need for treatment as the mucus is harmless. Medical professionals often reassure patients that it's nothing to worry about.
- Occasionally, a larger piece of mucus might block the pouch’s drainage valve. If this happens, you can try creating a slight "vacuum" by gripping the pouch near the stoma and gently squeezing the bag. This usually helps dislodge the mucus so you can empty the pouch.
- Some people might feel a temporary burning sensation or discomfort when passing mucus after surgery. Surgeons typically advise that this should improve over time and isn't a cause for concern unless the pain or other symptoms persist.