Written by Gord Garshowtiz & Iffah Pasha, Volunteers with Bladder Cancer Canada

Living with an ostomy involves building a routine, staying on top of supplies, and managing day-to-day care. In recent years, major ostomy suppliers have introduced mobile apps designed to support patients through this process. For people navigating ostomy care after bladder cancer, these tools may help simplify everyday management and build confidence over time.

This guide explores what ostomy apps are, what they offer, and how to decide if one is right for you. 

What Is an Ostomy? 

An ostomy is a surgically created opening (stoma) on the abdomen that allows waste to leave the body after bladder or bowel surgery. Some people living with bladder cancer may require a urostomy, also known as an ileal conduit, following a radical cystectomy, which redirects urine through a stoma into an external pouching system. 

Adjusting to life with an ostomy can take time, and many people develop routines to manage supplies, pouch changes, and day-to-day care. 

What Is an Ostomy App and Why Is It Useful? 

An ostomy app is a mobile tool designed to help individuals manage different aspects of ostomy care. Depending on the app, this can include setting reminders, tracking routines, logging symptoms, monitoring ostomy supply tracking, and organizing supplies. 

For many users, especially those new to living with an ostomy, these ostomy care apps can provide structure, reduce uncertainty, and help establish consistent care habits. For others, they may simply serve as a convenient reminder system. 

Common Challenges Ostomy Apps Help Address  

Ostomy apps aim to simplify several common challenges: 

• Keeping track of when to change your pouch 
• Monitoring supply usage and avoiding shortages 
• Maintaining consistent care routines 
• Logging symptoms, complications, or changes over time 
• Managing ostomy pouch tracking and reminders 

For new patients, this structure can be especially helpful. For more experienced users, the value may lie in convenience rather than necessity. 

Practical Considerations Before Choosing an Ostomy App 

Brand Compatibility 

Some apps are designed around their own product lines. This can limit functionality if you use supplies from multiple brands. 

Simplicity vs Complexity 

While some users appreciate detailed tracking, others may find too many features unnecessary or overwhelming. 

Dependence on Technology 

Apps can be helpful tools, but they are not essential. Many people successfully manage ostomy care without them. 

Ostomy Apps vs Traditional Tracking 

Some users prefer digital tools, while others rely on simple methods like mental tracking or pen-and-paper notes. 

• Apps: Convenient, automated reminders, structured tracking 
• Traditional methods: Simple, flexible, no reliance on devices 

There is no “right” approach, only what works best for your lifestyle. 

Available Ostomy Care Apps and Suppliers 

Most major ostomy suppliers now offer their own apps, including: 

• Coloplast – MyOstomy 
  Focuses on routine tracking, goal-setting, and reminders. 
• Hollister – Your Ostomy Journey Companion 
  Offers reminders, including prompts for ordering supplies. 
• Convatec – My Ostomy Journey 
  Includes logging features such as pouch change frequency. 

While all three ostomy apps aim to support ostomy care, they differ in their emphasis—some focus more on routine tracking, while others include supply management or reminders. 

Key Features to Compare in Ostomy Apps

1. Routine Tracking & Reminders 

Most apps allow users to set reminders for pouch changes or care routines. These reminders are often customizable (e.g., every few days), helping users maintain consistency. 

For example, some users rely on reminders every five days to ensure timely pouch changes. 

2. Supply Tracking & Logging 

Some apps allow you to log how often you change your pouch, which can help estimate supply usage over time. However, compatibility may be limited. Certain apps primarily support their own brand’s products, which may be a limitation for users mixing supplies. 

3. Goal-Setting and Routine Building 

Apps like MyOstomy emphasize building habits and setting care-related goals, which may be especially helpful for newer patients adjusting to life with an ostomy. 

4. Order Reminders 

Some apps include notifications to remind you to reorder supplies, helping reduce the risk of running out. 

Side-by-Side Comparison of Popular Ostomy Apps 

Which Ostomy App May Work Best for Different Needs? 

• Coloplast (MyOstomy) = Best for building routine and confidence 
• Convatec (My Ostomy Journey) = Best for detailed tracking and insights 
• Hollister (Ostomy Companion) = Best for simple reminders and organization 

The best ostomy reminder app depends on your personal preferences, comfort with technology, and daily care needs. 

Final Thoughts: Choosing the Right Ostomy App for Your Lifestyle 

Ostomy apps reflect an encouraging shift toward more patient-centered, supportive tools in healthcare. Companies like Coloplast, Convatec, and Hollister are investing in ways to make daily care more manageable and less stressful. 

While these apps can be helpful—especially for reminders and routine-building—they are not one-size-fits-all solutions. The best approach is to explore what each app offers and decide what aligns with your needs, preferences, and level of independence. 

Even a single feature, like a reminder to change your pouch, can make a meaningful difference in day-to-day care. 

Remember, you don’t have to manage life with an ostomy after bladder cancer treatment alone. Find support with Bladder Cancer Canada through educational resources, patient support programs, and more to help individuals and families navigate ostomy care, recovery, and everyday life with greater confidence and support. 

Resources 

Coloplast. (n.d.). MyOstomy app. 
https://www.coloplast.ca/bb-landing-pages/myostomy/ 

Coloplast. (n.d.). MyOstomy app [Mobile application]. Google Play Store. 
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.coloplast.myostomy 

Convatec. (n.d.). My Ostomy Journey app. 
https://www.convatec.com/ostomy-care/meplus-patient-support/my-ostomy-journey-app/ 

Convatec. (n.d.). My Ostomy Journey [Mobile application]. Google Play Store. 
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.convatec.myostomyjourney 

Hollister Incorporated. (n.d.). Ostomy Journey Companion app. 
https://go.hollister.com/en/Ostomy-Journey-Companion-App