After colostomy surgery, you might wonder if you need to change the way you eat or drink. While dietary adjustments may be necessary for some, not everyone with a colostomy will need to make significant changes. Understanding what’s normal for your stoma is the first step.
What to Expect with Bowel Movements After Colostomy Surgery
Normal Output:
- Typically, a colostomy produces up to 4 stoma bags’ worth of stool per day.
- The stool is usually brown, though its color may change based on your diet (e.g., beetroot may cause a red tint).
Texture and Consistency:
- Left-Sided Colostomy (closer to the rectum): Stool should be firm, similar to toothpaste consistency. Firmer stool might indicate constipation, which could lead to blockages, leakage, or skin complications.
- Mid-Abdominal Colostomy (above the belly button): Stool may have a texture like porridge mixed with milk.
- Right-Sided Colostomy (closer to the small intestine): Stool is softer and can be mushy, with a pudding-like consistency. This is because it’s closer to where digestion begins.
When to Seek Help
Pay attention to sudden changes in:
- Texture: Firmer or looser stool than usual.
- Color: Unexpected shifts unrelated to diet.
- Volume: Significant increases or decreases in output.
If you notice any of these changes, consult your doctor or stoma nurse promptly to avoid complications.
Quick Tip: Always observe your stoma’s output and adapt your diet only if advised by a healthcare professional.
Use the below guideline to see what is normal for your ostomy.
Bristol stool chart
• Type 3-5 is normal for a colostomy.
• Type 5-6 is normal for an ileostomy.
• Type 6-7 is normal for a jejunostomy.

Different poop color – meanings:

After colostomy surgery, most people don’t need drastic dietary changes, but it’s essential to know what normal stoma output looks like. Stool consistency and volume can vary depending on the location of your stoma, with normal ranges from firm (toothpaste-like) to soft or mushy. Sudden changes in output, such as color, texture, or volume, should be discussed with your Stoma Nurse or Surgeon to avoid complications. When in doubt, always seek professional advice.