[Self-image of clients with colostomy related to the collecting bag]. / Autoimagem de clientes com colostomia em relação à bolsa coletora.

The study aimed to analyze the perception of patients with colostomy in the use of the collection bag. It was conducted a descriptive qualitative approach, on the Center for Integrated Health Lineu Araujo, Teresina-PI, Brazil. Ten clients with colostomy bag participated in the survey. Data were generated through semi-structured interviews. Content analysis has revealed the feelings, the changes and how the process of adaptation of the person with the colostomy bag occurs. It was found that the relationship between the collection bag and the person with a colostomy is filled with negative feelings, significant changes in physical, psychological and sexual order, and in the web of his/her social relationships.