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This is a photo of a middle-aged white man, wearing a navy shirt and glasses. He is sitting on a sofa with a laptop on his knee. He is looking into the distance, thoughtful. It is the header image for the 'Preparing for surgery' image on the Urostomy Association's website

Preparing for your surgery

As the day of your op draws closer, there’ll be lots to think about, from what to pack for your hospital stay to arranging a lift home after you’ve been discharged. We've put together some practical tips to help make life a little easier at what can feel like a stressful time.

This is a head and shoulders shot of a man looking directly at the camera. It is the header image for the 'men's sexual health' page on the Urostomy Association's website

Men’s sexual wellbeing

Anyone can encounter sexual problems after urinary diversion surgery, and everyone’s experiences vary. We hope this information helps as you explore what sexual wellbeing will mean to you going forward.

This is a photo of a man looking over the side of a pool and smiling at the camera. It is the header image for an article on the Urostomy Association's website entitled 'Swimming with a urostomy'

Swimming with a urostomy

Living with a urostomy shouldn’t prevent you from doing the activities you enjoy. If that includes swimming – great! Water will not harm or enter your stoma, and swimming is a fantastic way to stay fit and healthy.

This is a photo of two women chatting over cups of tea. It is the header image for the 'What is a urostomy' page on the Urostomy Association's website

What is a urostomy?

This page is for anyone who has, or is about to have, a urostomy. It explains what a urostomy is and why it may be necessary. It explores issues such as how a stoma is formed and the different types of urostomy pouches available.

This is a photo of a couple sitting on a sofa, talking to a third person. It is a header image for the 'looking after a loved one with a urostomy' page on the Urostomy Association' website

Looking after a loved one with a urinary diversion

If you are caring for your loved one, it can feel rewarding knowing you are playing a big part in helping them stay as well and as active as possible. However, it can sometimes be demanding both physically and emotionally, especially if you are juggling your caring responsibilities with work and other activities.

This is a photo of a woman in consultation with a medical professional. It is the header image for the FAQ page on the Urostomy Association's website entitled 'Preparing for a urostomy; your early questions answered'

Diagnosis and pre-op

Being told that you need a urostomy can be daunting, and the best way to overcome any fears and to prepare for the new you is to ask lots of questions from those in the know.

This is a photo of a woman researching information on her tablet. It is the header image for the 'what to expect with a urostomy' page on the Urostomy Association's website

Understanding issues that may arise with a urostomy

The idea of having a urinary diversion can be a bit daunting. You’ll be pleased to know that after an operation to form a urostomy, many people have few or no problems whatsoever. However, some do experience difficulties, and we hope that this page helps you understand some of the issues that may occur.

This is a photo of a man in front of a laptop. It is to illustrate online shopping. It is the header image of the 'Directory of Suppliers' page on the Urostomy Association website

Directory of suppliers

This directory contains a selection of items which you might find helpful in managing your urinary diversion. Please note that the Urostomy Association does not recommend individual companies or products, and inclusion in this list does imply an endorsement from us.

This is a photo of a woman looking out of the window, with a peaceful look on her face. It is the header image for the 'managing and preventing urinary tract infections' page on the Urostomy Association's website

Managing and preventing urinary tract infections (UTIs)

Following urostomy surgery, the changes in your body may leave you more susceptible to urinary tract infections (UTIs). In most cases UTIs are mild and short lived. Not everyone will get a UTI so don’t worry too much, just be mindful.

This is a photo of a couple overlooking the sea, with mountains in the background. It is the header image for the 'travelling with confidence' page on the Urostomy Association's website

Travelling with confidence

There’s no reason for your urinary diversion to hold you back from travelling, so the world can still be your oyster! It’s natural to feel a bit apprehensive though, which is why we want to help you feel well prepared.