The aim of this study was to describe women's experience of living with a
colostomy after
rectal cancer surgery. Interviews with five women about their experiences were subjected to thematic content analysis. The findings showed that receiving a
cancer diagnosis gave rise to thoughts about life and death. For the women to feel comfortable, the information and health-care measures need to focus on supporting them through the entire process, also when the treatment is completed. After the surgery, the women adjusted to living with
colostomy and carried on as before the
cancer diagnosis, but they constantly worried about leakage or
flatulence. The women were happy to have survived the
cancer and this realization helped them to accept and have a good life with
colostomy. In conclusion, women with
colostomy because of rectal surgery need specific rehabilitation and
nursing care that focuses on adjustment to temporary or permanent changes in life.