The stool draining from an ileostomy will be liquid. Colostomy. A colostomy is an opening that connects the large bowel, or colon, to the skin. The stool draining from a colostomy will be pasty.

An ileostomy bag will need to be emptied several times ... but getting help from healthcare providers and ostomy patient advocacy groups can help make the first days and months go smoother.

Debbie Kinder of Charleston, West Virginia has used an ostomy bag for around four years. Her nonprofit, Kinder's Closet, provides free ostomy supplies to anyone who needs them.