Returning To Work

Returning to work after stoma surgery is a big milestone, and it is normal to feel a mix of readiness and apprehension about it. Getting back into a familiar routine, seeing colleagues and regaining a sense of normality can all be a real boost to your recovery. At the same time, you may be wondering how you will manage your stoma during the working day, what to tell your employer, and whether you will be able to do everything you did before.

The good news is that the vast majority of ostomates return to the same work they did before surgery and get on with their careers with little difficulty. In this guide, we cover when you can expect to go back, how to ease the transition, and the practical steps that make managing a stoma at work straightforward. You can find more general guidance across our ostomy support and advice section.

When can I return to work after stoma surgery?

Depending on the type of stoma surgery and the nature of your job, most people are fit to return to work within 8 - 12 weeks after surgery. Your healthcare team will provide specific guidance tailored to your situation.

This can vary quite a lot from person to person. If you have a desk-based or lighter role, you may feel ready sooner, while more physical jobs often need a longer recovery period before you return fully. Always follow the advice of your surgeon and Stoma Care Nurse, and do not feel pressured to rush back before your body is ready - giving yourself time to heal properly will pay off in the long run.

Can I do heavy lifting with a stoma?

Heavy lifting is usually built back up gradually over the first weeks and months after surgery, as this gives your tummy muscles time to recover and lowers the risk of a parastomal hernia (a weakness in the muscle around the stoma). If your job involves lifting, carrying or other strenuous activity, speak to your Stoma Care Nurse before you return. They can advise on how and when to build back up, and support wear such as a support belt or girdle can give the area extra support. We cover this further down in the guide.

Adjusting back to your work schedule

Before you return to work, it is recommended to discuss with your employer the possibility of a ‘return to work scheme’. Depending on your employer, they may be very accommodating and offer you the option of working from home, part-time hours, phased return or a temporary role, which are less strenuous on your body.

A phased return, where you build your hours back up gradually over a few weeks, is one of the most common and effective options. It gives you time to gauge how you feel, get used to managing your stoma during the day, and adjust your routine without the pressure of a full week from day one. It is worth putting any agreed arrangements in writing so both you and your employer are clear on the plan.

Do I have to tell my employer about my stoma?

You are not legally obliged to tell your employer or colleagues that you have a stoma. However, in the UK a stoma is generally considered a disability under the Equality Act 2010, which means your employer has a duty to make reasonable adjustments - such as flexible hours, easier access to toilet facilities or lighter duties - if you make them aware of your needs. Telling at least one person can therefore work in your favour.

Talking about your stoma with colleagues

It is entirely up to you if you decide to inform your fellow colleagues about your stoma, depending on how comfortable you are with it. However, it might be helpful to inform your line manager or another close colleague who you can confide in, of your stoma care needs. We recommend you inform someone, so that you won’t feel rushed when you go to change your stoma bag during the working day.

Managing your stoma at work

A little preparation goes a long way. The sections below cover the practical things worth sorting out before your first day back so that changing and caring for your stoma at work feels routine rather than stressful.

Stoma Care Equipment

Ensuring that you have your supply of stoma and continence care equipment located in a secure location can be very useful when you return to work.
It is a good idea to keep a small, discreet supply of everything you need at work - spare pouches, wipes, disposal bags, adhesive remover and a change of clothes - in a locker, drawer or bag you can reach easily. That way you are covered if you need to change unexpectedly, without having to head home. You can arrange for your supplies to be delivered directly to you through our home delivery service so you never run low.

Work Uniform & Clothing

It’s important to think about the clothing/uniform, which you wear at work. Following on from your stoma surgery, you may need a different size to what you may have worn prior to your surgery. It’s also advisable to take in a spare uniform/work clothing to work, in case an accident occurs with your stoma bag.
Higher-waisted trousers or skirts can sit comfortably over your stoma, and softer, more flexible fabrics tend to be more comfortable than stiff waistbands. Many ostomates find specialist support wear and stoma-friendly underwear help them feel secure and confident in their uniform.

Workplace changing facilities & toilets

Consider the changing facilities at your workplace. Before you return to work, it’s worth having a think about what facilities there are available to you - to ensure that you are always prepared. It is advisable that you have a changing travel bag, which you can discreetly take into the changing facilities/toilets within your workplace.

If your workplace has accessible toilets, these often give you more space and privacy for changing. If facilities are limited, this is a reasonable adjustment you can raise with your employer. A RADAR key, which gives access to locked disabled toilets across the UK, can also be useful when you are out and about for work.

Adjusting Your Daily Routine

Building up a daily routine can be really helpful when returning to work after your stoma operation. Many people find that their everyday routine of getting ready for work, leaving the house and changing your bag at work can take longer, after a stoma operation. So, with this in mind, it’s a good idea to have a few trial runs, to help you adjust and feel comfortable in your everyday routine.

Additional Ostomy Support Wear

There is a range of stoma support belts, girdles and underwear that you may find useful when returning to work, particularly if your job may require any heavy lifting. For further advice or for a fitting, speak to your Stoma Care Nurse for guidance.

As well as offering support and comfort, this kind of wear can help reduce the risk of a parastomal hernia during more physical tasks, and many people simply find it gives them extra confidence and security under their work clothes. You can explore the full Salts Healthcare product range to find products suited to your needs.

If you have any further questions about returning to work after your stoma surgery, then please contact us on our Freephone number 0800 626388 or email enquiries@saltsmedilink.co.uk.