The invention provides a temporary device which absorbs secreted material while protecting a stoma from impact, thus preventing soiling and irritation to the stoma tissue and peristomal skin. The temporary stoma protector 201 may be applied prior to applying an ostomy pouch, for example after bathing or during changing of a pouch. It comprises an elongate body 203 having a lumen which receives the stoma, an absorbent layer 207, and a protective layer 205. The protecting layer and absorbent layer may be provided by a single layer, or the absorbent layer may fulfil both absorbent and protecting functions. There is also described: a method of using the stoma protector by temporarily placing the stoma protector over a stoma； a sheet of material or multi-laminate which may be joined at its ends 222 to form a stoma protector； and methods of producing a stoma protector according to the invention.
