This topic is about experiencing unexpected rectal discharge even after having a colostomy. The person noticed a small amount of stool-like material passing through the rectum, which was surprising since the bowel diversion is upstream. They felt constipated before this discharge, and it was not related to any bowel preparation for a colonoscopy.

Here are some helpful insights and advice shared by others:

1. It is likely mucus, not stool. After a colostomy, the rectal segment of the bowel can still secrete mucus. If this mucus builds up, it can harden and resemble a bowel movement.

2. A surgeon's recommendation is to irrigate the rectal stump about every other week to clear out the mucus. During reversals, surgeons often find hardened mucus that looks like stool.

3. Management options include:
- Using glycerine suppositories, which one person finds effective. A single suppository can keep the rectum clear for about a week and is easier than doing an enema every other day.
- Enemas are another option, though they might need to be done more frequently.

4. Regarding odor, someone with a double colostomy mentioned that the mucus has a distinct but non-offensive smell, similar to "dental work." This suggests that the smell can vary and is not necessarily unpleasant.