Adapting to life with a medical appliance

Having an ostomy (medical appliance) fitted for the first time, such as a stoma or catheter, can have a big impact on your life.¹

You may have lots of questions and feel worried, sad, overwhelmed, or even angry.

These feelings are understandable, but there are places and people you can go to for support. They will help you deal with changes to your life and answer any questions you, or your family, may have.

Some people may need an appliance fitted for a short time, whilst others may need a permanent appliance fitted to help manage a long-term condition. Whichever type of appliance you have, it may take time to get used to it.

It can sometimes take time to find an appliance that’s right for you. People try different appliances for all sorts of reasons, such as the appliance feeling uncomfortable or not fitting properly.

Talk to your GP or nurse if you think you might like to try a different appliance. They’ll be able to talk you through your options.

Having a medical appliance fitted may change certain parts of your day-to-day life, including your work, hobbies, or relationships with others. You may also have to rely on others to help you with day-to-day tasks, such as household chores, shopping or childcare.²

Some of these changes may only last for a short time until you adjust to life with an appliance, but others may last longer or be permanent.

You may experience other changes to your life after having an appliance fitted.

These changes may affect the following:

Remember that everyone is different and one person's experience of having an appliance won’t necessarily be the same as someone else. You may experience some of the changes we mention on this page, or none at all.

Having an appliance fitted can be overwhelming and for some people it can come as a shock. This can have an impact on your mental wellbeing.

Feeling like this may reduce over time as you start to adjust to life with an appliance. Talking to someone about how you feel can help and be reassuring.³

If you’d prefer to talk to someone you don’t know, speak to your GP as they may be able to refer you to a counsellor.

A counsellor is a professional who is trained to listen and help you find ways to cope. You can refer yourself for counselling on the NHS website.

You could also try contacting a charity who may be able to put you in touch with online support groups or local face-to-face meetings.

At group meetings, people share experiences and exchange advice. These can be useful places to get informal support from others who understand what you’re going through.⁴

Some people find that having an appliance fitted can change their relationships with others, including changes to their sex life.⁵

If this is the case, you can discuss it with your GP or nurse and they will be able to help you access the appropriate support.

You could also try talking to your partner about how you feel. It is not always easy to start a difficult conversation, but there are specialist charities that can support you with starting these conversations.

If you’re worried about changes to your sex life, the Sexual Advice Association has information that could help on their website.

In general, after a period of recovery, your work shouldn’t be impacted by your medical appliance.

If you need to do any heavy lifting at work, you may need to wear additional protective gear, like a support belt or girdle.⁶

If you need to make changes to your work because of your appliance, talk to your employer about what options might be possible. Your employer is obliged to make reasonable adjustments for you to perform your duties.⁷

If you have to take time off work because of your medical appliance, or you’re concerned about money, talk to Citizens Advice or visit the government website. Both have information and support about benefits and sick pay you might be eligible for.