The beginning

Hi CJR and welcome to the group.

I am just saying hello, as I can’t offer any practical advice since I have a colostomy and urostomy, but others will be along who understand life with an ileostomy. I notice you call it your new friend, so that’s a positive start! We’ve had threads before which have been quite funny with people giving names to their stomas. Mine are Boris and Donald due to my surgery being in 2020! 

I hope you’ll hear from others soon, and please feel free to ask any questions-there will be plenty of advice and support here for you. I hope you’re recovering well from your surgery.

Sarah xx

Hello CJR,

I have a loop ileostomy and a colostomy. The former does all the work and the latter is a mucus outlet. I decided to keep the ileostomy because it works so well following a rectal resection. I suggest that there are a few key points:

Decide which ostomy pouch and ancillaries suit you best to ensure a leak-free life, to bolster your self confidence;

Avoid foods which are obviously indigestible, e.g. nuts, beansprouts, sweetcorn, tough skins, seeds, etc.

Drink plenty of water to rehydrate daily.

Change a drainable pouch every 48 hours max.

Reconsider any medicines you take as they will pass through your system within a few hours. 

Be prepared to wear looser clothes for greater comfort.

Avoid lifting heavy loads (forever).

Don't be alarmed if you have to empty every four hours or so - it is normal.

Use a lavatory intended for 'disabled' people if you prefer as they give greater freedom to do whatever is necessary. If anyone complains tell them to mind their own business.

If travelling abroad tell the security people that you have a stoma; you will find them to be kind and considerate.

Best 

Dulac

Thank you for replying Dulac they are really helpful comments it’s just such a life changer but I’m sure I will get better as time goes on

take care

Thank you Sarah for your reply I’ve named mine Doris.. I’m doing ok just be glad to get into a routine and learn to live with her

Take care x

I hope Doris is well behaved! You’ll be amazed how quickly you get into a routine and this will all become second nature for you-it just takes time and a bit of practice. I really struggle to remember life without mine now-they are just part of me.

You’ve had some good advice from Dulac and stick with the group and ask any further questions-we have experienced all sorts here!

Sarah xx

Hi you have had lots of good advice already but if there is anything you want to ask  no question is too silly or small please do ask.

All the best to you and doris from me and Fred(who is almost 5 yrs old , time flies)

Kath

Thanks for your lovely reply it really helps to hear the positives

Take care x

Thank you for your positive reply it really helps 

take care x

I’m glad you’re finding the group helpful. Some of us have been around quite a long time and we’re very happy to share experiences. It can seem daunting at the start when things are new, but when everything settles down and you’ve got into that routine, you should be fine. 

Sarah xx