Temporary vs Permanent Stoma: What’s the Difference?

January 8, 2026

If you've recently been told you need ostomy surgery, it's normal to feel confused or stressed. A common question many ostomates may ask is: "Will my stoma be temporary or permanent?" While temporary and permanent stomas may appear similar, they are fundamentally different.

This blog explains the key differences between a temporary stoma and a permanent stoma to help you understand your condition and what to expect.

What is a Temporary Stoma?

According to the UOAA, a temporary stoma is a short-term solution where part of the digestive or urinary system is diverted to an opening in the abdominal wall. It's usually created to allow time for healing after surgery or injury. Once the underlying issue is treated, the stoma can be reversed, restoring normal function.

Why Might You Need a Temporary Stoma?

Bowel Rest: Just like a broken leg needs a cast to stay still and heal, a damaged bowel needs to stop working for a while. A temporary ostomy allows the lower part of the intestine to rest by redirecting waste.
Healing After Surgery: If a surgeon reconnects two pieces of the bowel (called an anastomosis), they want to make sure the "seam" doesn't leak. A temporary ostomy protects this new connection from the pressure of passing waste.
Emergency Protection: In cases of sudden injury or severe infection, a temporary stoma is a life-saving tool that prevents waste from entering the abdominal cavity, which could cause a dangerous infection.

How Long Does a Temporary Stoma Last?

According to NHS, temporary stoma is typically retained for at least six weeks. This period allows tissue swelling to subside. Due to various factors, including your overall health and postoperative recovery, some stomas may take several months to close. If your surgery was performed for cancer, subsequent treatments such as chemotherapy may also delay stoma closure.

Stoma with a barrier ring applied to protect peristomal skin and prevent leakage.

What is a Permanent Stoma?

A permanent stoma is a long-term or lifelong solution where a portion of the digestive or urinary system is diverted permanently to an opening in the abdominal wall. This type of stoma is usually the result of a medical condition or surgery that permanently affects the intestines, bladder, or other digestive organs.

Why Might You Need a Permanent Stoma?

Advanced Cancer: When a tumor requires the removal of the entire rectum or anus.
Severe IBD: When Crohn’s disease or colitis causes irreversible damage to the colon.
Incontinence: When nerve damage or injury makes bowel control impossible.
Birth Defects: When the digestive tract does not form correctly at birth.
Major Trauma: When a serious injury destroys a large section of the bowel.

Can a Temporary Stoma Become Permanent?

Sometimes a temporary stoma can become a permanent stoma. While most people have a successful reversal, your doctor might decide to keep the stoma if:

Healing Issues: The bowel connection does not heal properly or is too narrow to work safely.
Health Risks: A second surgery might be too dangerous due to heart issues or other health conditions.
Disease Return: The original disease, such as cancer or severe inflammation, comes back in the area.
Muscle Control: The muscles used to control bowel movements are not strong enough to work after a reversal.

Whether your stoma is temporary or permanent, the key is finding a system that works for you. Having the right ostomy bag and ensuring your comfort during recovery will help you adjust to life with an ostomy.

Everyone’s needs are different, so whether you’re looking for a temporary ostomy solution or have a permanent ostomy, it’s important to explore the options that best suit your body and lifestyle.