Why is my stoma bleeding?
The bowel has a very good blood supply, which is why the stoma is pink/red in colour. Whilst cleaning your stoma, a small amount of bleeding seen on the cloth/wipe is normal. This is called contact bleeding.
What should you do if you notice blood in or around your stoma?
First you should examine the stoma and determine where blood is coming from. If you notice active bleeding from an area on the surface of the stoma, apply direct pressure with a cloth/wipe for 1 to 2 minutes. This will often stop the bleeding. If the bleeding does not stop after applying direct pressure seek advice from a medical professional. This may include your GP, the 111 service, or your stoma nurse.
What if there is blood in your stoma bag?
If there is an excessive amount of blood in your bag, seek urgent medical attention by contacting your GP, the 111 service, or attending your local A&E department.
Register with the Medilink® Home Delivery Service
Get your stoma bags and additional products delivered directly to your home with Medilink®, our stoma prescription dispensing and home delivery service.
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