Becoming confident with your ostomy !

Eat carefree - that's how it works

Perhaps this seems like a giant step to you. But there is no reason why you shouldn't eat in a restaurant.

Good preparation is important

You can always contact the restaurant to prepare before you go. And many restaurants put their menu online, so you can always find out what's available before you visit the restaurant.

Where to go

Maybe first choose a restaurant that you already know well. You don't have to be overly cautious, but you should be practical. Order what you feel like, but consider how you react to certain foods. Do not hesitate to ask the waitress which ingredients are used.

If possible, you can also order dishes that you have already tried at home. This will let you know how you are likely to respond. In turn, if you eat more and more different foods gradually, your concerns about eating out will decrease. Even if it is part of your life to drink alcohol at home, it is better to take it slowly. So a small beer is better than a big one. In this way, your body can get used to alcohol more easily and possible reactions can be reduced or even avoided altogether.

Don't let ostomy surgery keep you home

Though most things are easier in the comfort of home, it is really important to get back to living and enjoying all the things that you were doing before your surgery. That includes going out and socializing with friends and family.

Will it be awkward?

It is only natural to be concerned about having to explain your situation to people you don't know. But when meeting new people, remember that you do not owe them an explanation of your condition, and it is totally up to you if and when you choose to tell them.

Have a short explanation ready

Sometimes, preparing a short and confident explanation will help put your mind at ease even if you don't ever use it. For instance, you could simply explain briefly that you went through a serious illness, and because of that you had major surgery and now wear an ostomy pouch.

Avoid being too technical, and try to be open to questions - without over-sharing. Don't feel you have to explain details of your surgery even if they ask.

What about family and friends?

If you are open and honest with the people close to you, it can help you get back to the life you had before your ostomy surgery. It is completely normal if you still feel uncomfortable talking about it right after surgery. Keep in mind that opening up and sharing can be helpful to you and to them.

How to involve your partner

If you have a partner, it is good to have an open and honest discussion socializing with friends and acquaintances. Involving your partner in how you would like to explain your condition if and when you choose to, will help both of you handle the situation more naturally.

Intimacy and pregnancy with ostomy

After ostomy surgery, it is natural that you are worried about the appearance of the body. It may take time to get used to the physical changes and you may feel less attractive as a result. It can be a challenge but it is important to accept it as part of who you are.

What happens to the intimacy?

Intimacy and a normal love relationship can be resumed after ostomy surgery. How and when depends on the type of surgery you have undergone. Impotence and / or discomfort may occur if the rectum or bladder has been removed (women may also be affected).

It is important to talk to your partner and not feel too self-conscious because of the surgery. It is also important to talk to your ostomy nurse who is used to discussing the concerns you are experiencing and can help you in many ways. There are also several handy tips and tricks to cope with everyday obstacles. For example, you can customize lingerie so that they are worn as a tube around the body and cover the bag, or to use mini bags for intimate situations.

Can I have children?

In short, yes. Having a stoma does not prevent a woman from having a baby throughout her pregnancy and giving birth normally. As the stomach grows, the stoma will simply follow the shape of the abdomen as it changes. In later stages of pregnancy you may need to use a mirror when changing your bag. The delivery takes place in the normal way.

Talk about it

There is nothing safer than someone who really understands what you are experiencing. Through your local patient association you can meet other stoma surgeons and get useful tips, inspiration and personal support.

Warm climate

If the climate is warm enough to make you perspire more than usual, the barrier might lose adhesion and you may need to change your pouch more frequently.

Make sure your skin is completely dry before you apply a new barrier for good adhesion. It can be a bit tricky if the weather is very hot and humid – if drying your skin is difficult, you can use a hairdryer on low heat to dry the area (but be careful that it does not get too hot and keep it away from the stoma itself).

Sun lotion

Apply sunscreen after you put on your barrier, as the lotion could affect the baseplate and make it harder to stick. Read about applying sunscreen in the 'use sunscreen' section.

Storage

We recommend that your supplies are stored in a cool place – do not leave your ostomy products e.g. in the car for long periods during hot weather, since the heat may damage the adhesion.

Storage

Talk to your stoma nurse – and get the products you need

Talk to your stoma nurse – and get the products you need

When spending time in a warmer climate you might need a few more products than usually. For some people a skin barrier that helps the adhesive stick better can be very helpful, and if it is the edges not sticking properly an elastic tape can be a possible solution. Some benefit from using a antiperspirant on the skin in the area to be covered by the adhesive. Or try our new Brava® Protective Ring for additional security.