Give to Gain: Women with a Stoma Changing the Story

08 March, 2026

International Women’s Day 2026 focuses on the theme Give to Gain, highlighting how sharing experiences can lead to positive change. For women living with a stoma, one of the most powerful things that can be shared is visibility.

For many years, stomas were rarely spoken about and often misunderstood. Keeping a stoma private felt like the safest option. In recent years, however, a number of well-known women have chosen to speak openly about life with a stoma. By giving up some privacy, they have helped the stoma community gain greater awareness, understanding, and acceptance.

Speaking Openly About Life with a Stoma

Women including Adele Roberts, Tracey Emin, Louise Thompson, and Mollie Pearce have publicly shared that they have a stoma.

Their experiences are all different, but they are connected by honesty. They have spoken about surgery, recovery, and learning to live with a changed body. They have shared the emotional impact as well as the physical, including fear, relief, frustration, and renewed confidence.

Speaking publicly about a stoma is not always easy. It can involve difficult conversations and unwanted attention. However, by being open, these women have helped to challenge stigma and show that life with a stoma is simply one part of a much bigger picture.

The Highs and Lows

Public stories about stomas are most helpful when they are realistic. Life with a stoma is not perfect, but it is not something to be ashamed of.

Many people experience positive changes after stoma surgery, such as improved health, more energy, and a return to everyday activities. At the same time, there can be challenges, including body image concerns, leaks, fatigue, and learning how to manage a stoma day to day.

When these realities are talked about openly, it helps others feel understood. People who are newly diagnosed can see that their worries are normal, while those who have lived with a stoma for longer may feel reassured that they are not alone.

Why Visibility Matters

Increased visibility leads to increased understanding. When stomas are discussed openly, misconceptions are reduced and conversations become easier, whether at work, in healthcare settings, or with friends and family.

This awareness helps to challenge stereotypes and supports a more inclusive view of health, disability, and women’s bodies. It also helps people with stomas feel more confident in speaking up about their needs.

Giving Together, Gaining Together

Not everyone wants or needs to share their story publicly, and that choice should always be respected. But when some women do choose to speak out, it benefits the wider community.

This International Women’s Day, Give to Gain reminds us that sharing experiences can lead to connection, reassurance, and change. By giving visibility and honesty, women with stomas have helped the whole community gain confidence and understanding.

Support From Colostomy UK

We offer a wide range of support for people living with a colostomy, including our free Stoma Helpline, live chat support, and opportunities to connect with others through local and online groups. We also provide trusted information and resources to offer practical advice, reassurance, and the confidence to live well with a stoma: colostomyuk.org/support