What to expect at the stoma fitting appointment

Hi RoseInTheSun 

For me, I was just measured by the nurse for where my two stomas would be placed. They were asking about what I would typically wear so that they would know where my waistband would sit for example, and made me sit down, stand up and lie down to see the contours of my body.  Placement can be slightly different in the actual op as it depends what the surgeon has to work with. They just marked my skin with a marker pen. Everyone’s body shape is different with lumps and bumps etc, so they should want to see where the bags will sit. My appointment was very short, once they decided where they thought would be best and I had agreed. Literally it was “x” marks the spot on either side of my body. 

The nurses may give your husband a practice kit where he can pop a bag on his tummy and fill it with water for example to see how it feels and some people do like to have some time practising with them. I got some leaflets and pictures etc, and a rubber thing to stick on my skin to resemble a stoma. For me, I didn’t bother trying this but your husband may want to. In the event, neither of my stomas look anything like the pictures I’d been shown, and don’t protrude from my body at all, so if I had tried the “fake stoma” I might have been very surprised to see how I actually ended up! 

If I might suggest not using the phrase fitted with a stoma? It’s part of your anatomy so part of you rather than having something added to your body so it’s better to think about it this way. Some people have excellent support and advice from stoma nurses in hospital, but unfortunately my experience wasn’t like that so if you have any questions, make sure you ask them when you’re there. I was however very happy with how my stomas were sited on either side of my belly button, and I think they are very neat! They do not interfere with what I wear or my waistband so I’m happy with that. Obviously it might be easier for me as a woman because I wear elasticated leggings etc and a long top or sweater to cover everything, so I don’t have to worry about zips and buttons. 

Sarah xx

I was given the practise kit when I had my first appointment with the surgeon.I did use it and found it helpful to realise that no one could tell I had a stoma and that I could wear my usual clothes.

I wasnt measured until the morning of my operation when the nurse marked me up with a marker pen after asking where I wore my waistband and seat belt etc.it has worked perfectly and doesnt interfere with my clothing at all

Kath

Thank you both for your replies. Sounds very straight forward! I doubt he’ll get the practice kit as he’s being admitted the following day for pre op prep so won’t really have the time, but good to know they’ll work around his body shape to find out what works for him. 

thanks again!

sarah x

I was also given some literature on stomas. I wasn't well enough to read it beforehand but it was helpful in answering some questions down the road. 

RoseInTheSun,

You have had some good advice there from our friends. The stoma nurses are skilled and respected by their colleagues and know their business. It might take two minutes to decide!

Post op it might take a few weeks for things to settle down before the most agreeable solution is found regarding pouches and accessories. Stomas aren't all negatives: there are some positives believe it or not as time will tell.

Dulac 

Hoping all went to plan on thursday.

Kath

Thanks Kath. Longest day ever waiting for the surgeon to call but after 18 hours they said it all went plan. He’s doing really well and is moving onto the main ward today and has already been for a few short walks around the ward. They initially said he would be in HDU until wed/thursday so really pleased. All the support here has been amazing and made everything so much easier! Xx