Around one third of people living with a stoma have an outward peristomal body profile due to curves and bulges. Data from our Ostomy Life Study 2016/2017 shows that these patients have very specific challenges in dealing with their situation. In this section, we share insights on what these challenges are and how to best support this group of patients.

 

When do outward peristomal areas develop?

Peristomal areas can develop both early and late following stoma surgery. It is most common (50%) for outward areas to develop within the first 6 months after surgery. However, for almost a third of people (30%) with outward peristomal body profiles, the area didn’t develop until more than a year after surgery1.

Average number of accessories used

People with outward peristomal body profiles use more accessories. Similar to inward peristomal body profiles, outward peristomal areas require more accessories to obtain proper fit and care1.

Outward peristomal body profiles are challenged by body movement

Our findings show that people with outward peristomal body profiles experience that movements of the body as well as static body positions have an impact on the skin around the stoma1.

Outward peristomal body profiles are challenged by body movement 

  • Many people with outward peristomal areas experience stretching of the ostomy shape when they change body position. 
  • The findings show that many people with outward peristomal body profiles have uncontrollable bellies as they move up and down when active and moves to the side when lying down.
  • A little more than half of the people with an outward peristomal body profile experience stretching of the skin when sitting down.