For many people living with a stoma, everyday life involves more than managing a medical condition it also means navigating how their body is seen by others. While stoma bags have long been something patients try to conceal, a growing number are choosing to wear them openly and confidently, challenging stigma along the way.
Several people interviewed by the BBC describe the emotional adjustment that follows stoma surgery as just as significant as the physical recovery. Feelings of embarrassment, fear of judgment and changes to body image are common, particularly in the months after surgery. Some say they initially avoided social situations or carefully planned outfits to hide their stoma bag.
Over time, many found reassurance through online communities and social media, where others shared honest stories, styling tips and photos that showed stoma bags as part of real, everyday bodies. Seeing representation helped normalize their experience and made it easier to rebuild confidence.
Fashion has also played a role in this shift. Adaptive clothing, patterned stoma covers and supportive underwear are becoming more widely available, allowing people to prioritise both comfort and self-expression. For some, treating their stoma bag like an accessory rather than something to hide has been a turning point.
Advocates say greater visibility helps break down misconceptions and encourages open conversations about disability, health and identity. By embracing their stoma bags rather than concealing them, many hope to make life a little easier for those adjusting to the same reality and to remind others that medical devices do not define a person’s style or self-worth.
