General information, not an individual diagnosis. Ask a healthcare professional if you are unsure about your situation.
After bladder removal for cancer, urine can be diverted into a pouch attached to the skin through an opening called a stoma. This route carries urine, unlike a digestive stoma.
The appliance includes a pouch connected to the stoma and an adhesive baseplate changed regularly. A collection bag can be connected to the pouch and attached to the leg to make moving around easier.
Before discharge, discuss an appliance suited to your needs with the team. Ask for a demonstration and show the steps yourself to check that you understand how it works.
Ask when to change the baseplate, how to organise supplies and whom to contact if the pouch leaks or a question arises. Ameli advises asking the medical team without delay when questions arise.
A urinary pouch does not prevent washing with soap and water, taking a bath or going to the beach. If the appliance affects daily life or intimacy, speak to the team about solutions suited to you.
Follow-up after cancer remains necessary. If an abnormal symptom appears, particularly fever or blood in the urine, tell your doctor promptly and bring the appointment forward if needed. Outside these symptoms, keep the planned checks.
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