A colostomy is when the colon is cut to remove the cancer and the top end of the colon is attached to an opening made in the skin of the belly. Waste comes out of this opening and is held in a bag stuck to the skin. After the shock of a colon cancer diagnosis, one of the first concerns that many people have is whether they will need to use a colostomy bag. Depending on the stage and location of the cancer, most people with colon cancer do not need a colostomy. If you do, it is usually reversed after a short time. After the two ends of the colon are surgically reconnected, you can go back to your normal bathroom habits. For a few people, a colostomy bag may need to be permanent. It’s natural to feel anxious about this adjustment. However, many people report that a colostomy impacts their quality of life less than they feared. If you need a colostomy, a specially trained nurse will help you get used to it as smoothly as possible.