Generally, with a colostomy you will need to use a closed bag. But if the output from your stoma is particularly fluid, a drainable bag may be more appropriate. You may want to move away from the clear bag fitted immediately after your operation to an opaque version that could also be smaller. Also if you have had an end colostomy, you may be able to manage your stoma with a colostomy plug or irrigation. 

There are two main types of systems:  

• One-piece system 
  This consists of a collection bag with an integrated adhesive baseplate, which firmly fits around your stoma.
• Two-piece system
  In the two-piece system, the collection bag is separate from the adhesive baseplate, and the two halves are securely clipped or sealed together. This means that you don’t have to remove the adhesive plate from around the stoma every time you change the bag. 

Generally, with an ileostomy you will need to use a drainable bag. You may want to move away from the clear bag fitted immediately after your operation to an opaque version that could also be smaller. 

There are two main types of systems: 

• One-piece system
  This consists of a collection bag with an integrated adhesive baseplate, which fits firmly around your stoma.
• Two-piece system
  In the two-piece system, the collection bag is separate from the adhesive baseplate, and the two halves are securely clipped or sealed together. This means that you don’t have to remove the adhesive plate from around the stoma every time you change the bag. 

There are many different types of bag available, and your specialist stoma nurse will be able to help you choose the most appropriate one. You may want to move away from the clear bag fitted immediately after your operation to an opaque version that comes in smaller sizes. Also, you may choose to use a night drainage bag when you get home. 

There are two main types of systems: 

• One-piece system
  This consists of a collection bag with an integrated adhesive baseplate, which fits firmly around your stoma.
• Two-piece system
  In the two-piece system, the collection bag is separate from the adhesive baseplate, and the two halves are securely clipped or sealed together. This means that you don’t have to remove the adhesive plate from around the stoma every time you change the bag.