How To Build Confidence When You First Get a Stoma Bag

It’s Okay To Feel Unsure at First

When you first get a stoma bag, it’s completely normal to feel overwhelmed. You’ve been through major surgery, your body has changed, and your routine looks different — it’s a lot to take in.

But here’s the truth: confidence comes with time, care, and compassion for yourself.

At Stoma Styles, we see confidence not as something you’re born with, but something you build — one small win at a time.

 

💬 Step 1: Remember What Your Stoma Gave You

It’s easy to focus on what’s changed, but your stoma has given you something powerful — your health, your energy, and your life back.

Think of it not as a flaw, but as a symbol of strength and survival.

Your stoma tells a story of endurance — and that’s something to be proud of.

“I didn’t lose anything — I gained the freedom to live without pain.”

Writing this down or saying it aloud can help you reframe your mindset and start to see your stoma as part of your power, not your weakness.

 

🧍 Step 2: Get Comfortable With Your Body Again

Confidence begins with comfort — both physically and emotionally.

Start by spending a few minutes each day simply getting used to your stoma. Look at it, touch it gently, and remind yourself it’s part of you.

💡 Practical tips:

• Practice changing your bag calmly, not in a rush.
• Try on your favourite clothes and see how good they still feel.
• Add a soft stoma bag cover to make your bag feel smoother and more “you.”

Stoma Styles covers are designed to make your bag feel comfortable, discreet, and stylish — so you can rebuild that connection with your body in a positive way.

👉 Explore our full range of confidence-boosting covers.

💬 Step 3: Dress for Confidence

One of the quickest ways to boost your mood is to wear clothes that make you feel good.

Choose:

✅ High-waisted jeans, leggings, or underwear for support

✅ Soft, stretchy fabrics that move with your body

✅ Layered outfits that make you feel relaxed and stylish

And remember — confidence doesn’t mean hiding. Many people proudly wear crop tops, bikinis, and fitted clothes with their stomas. The more you own it, the more natural it feels.

 

💞 Step 4: Talk About It (When You’re Ready)

You don’t owe anyone an explanation — but talking about your stoma can help you feel more confident and less isolated.

Whether it’s with a close friend, partner, or online support group, sharing your story helps you realise how normal and strong you are.

You’ll also find others who completely understand what you’re going through — and that sense of community can be life-changing.

 

🪞 Step 5: Positive Mindset Shifts

Here are a few small affirmations to practice:

✨ “My stoma makes me stronger, not weaker.”

✨ “I am still me — and I am proud of my body.”

✨ “This bag doesn’t define me; it empowers me.”

Confidence comes from how you talk to yourself. Each kind thought you give your body helps rebuild trust and self-acceptance.

 

🌸 Step 6: Allow Yourself Time

It’s easy to compare your recovery to others, but confidence isn’t a race.

Some people feel comfortable within weeks, others take months — and both are completely okay.

Be gentle with yourself. Healing takes time, physically and emotionally.

💡 Step 7: Find Tools That Help You Feel Good

You deserve comfort and confidence — every single day.

That’s why we created Stoma Styles covers:

• Soft, breathable, and skin-friendly
• Designed to fit all bag types (ileostomy, colostomy, urostomy)
• Available in hundreds of colours and prints
• Made to help you express your personality proudly

Because when your bag feels comfortable, you feel unstoppable.

 

💚 Final Thoughts

Getting a stoma changes your body — but it doesn’t change you.

You’re still strong, capable, and beautiful.

Confidence doesn’t happen overnight, but it grows each time you choose to live your life proudly.

At Stoma Styles, we’re here to help you feel comfortable and confident — not just with your stoma, but in your skin, your clothes, and your life.