Ileostomy operation yesterday

You might look at the Comfizz website. They produce elasticated waistbands in various sizes that offer gentle support to stoma pouches which can also improve one's appearance when dressing for formal occasions. I use them occasionally but have learnt not to wear one when either sleeping or when seated for long periods of several hours (e.g. when travelling). Overall I have conditioned myself not to give a hoot about what others might think.We all have crosses to bear one way or another.

Dulac

I’ve only had one formal occasion since surgery-my daughter’s wedding-and I wore a floaty kind of patterned dress which meant nothing was on show thank goodness! Most people were more interested in the mobility scooter I was using at the time anyway.

Your attitude is a good one-we don’t know what anyone else is going through.

Sarah xx

Thank you, will check out their website.

I also love your sassyness!

Hi AllyL

As Sarah says it's mainly down to how one feels. For me (urostomy so on the right) it's stoma pants originally from suppliers recommended by the hospital (v expensive). Had been size 12 but used 16 - 18 just after the op as my stomach changed shape, then as it calmed down got some 14-16 ones Still wearing the smaller size though they've become tighter with washing.

Now I mainly use the M&S new ones - much cheaper and better made, size 14. They have some elastane for comfort and have a wider waistband too like exercise wear, which just goes above my bag. The silhouette is fine in those I find and they are supportive too. I don't need extra adhesive straps. 

I had a lot of flab on my tummy before the op having once lost a lot of weight no washboard stomach sadly! And so the stoma nurse gave me a thin elasticated belt that fastens with velcro through the plastic loops on my stoma bags for added security - helps when my bag fills up with urine before I can empty it. That doesn't give much anti-hernia support. I've just ordered a couple more from the bag supplier in my regular order as after daily wear and washing for nearly 3 years the velcro is splitting.

To avoid hernias I have been slowly building up my core again using Pilates and pelvic floor exercises. I was a keen floor and reformer user for 20 years or so before my illness. So far so good. 

I recommend looking at the Urostomy Association website where there is a video re post-op exercise given by a physiotherapist (I think) called Sarah Russell who has a stoma (colostomy) and does online courses for those who want to avoid hernias and strengthen the core. She gave me a lot of helpful advice when I contacted her. Also findable via googling pilates + stoma.

All the best.

Latestart

Great info Latestart

I am finding hipster knickers and long cami the most comfortable at the moment. Shorts, trousers waistbands seem to rub and feel very uncomfortable.

I was a size 12 before the op and after months with an anal stricture I dropped to a small 10. 

Eating lots of small meals and trying to build up my weight before chemoradiation starts. 

Stoma is working brilliantly. Sorted out my bags and stoma stuff on Friday. Using Welland bags and products and finding them nice and easy.

My only concern is I think I have a small hernia. The site is domed on one side and I have some pain and pull. Having a meeting with the radiologist on Monday, so will ask my surgeons to have a look.

Bit sad about that, but everything else feels so much better.

Ally xx

Good luck re hernia, I asked my stoma nurse's view as I wondered if I had one coming (and they see lots of different stomas - probably more than radiologists do.) She said no and I think what I was seeing was the bit of the gut they used to make the stoma that was in a rounded shape pushing under the skin. But many people have a hernia so don't worry, they seem to cope and if you do have one I'm sure you would too.

I use Welland too and I'm pleased with the Manuka honey in the flange as I had a bad reaction to other bags that an earlier local stoma nurse tried to make me use:  they made my skin very sore for weeks, even after I changed back to Welland bags.

Also, you will have seen the plastic loops on the Welland bags that I slip the Welland belt through. Very effective for me and comfortable too.

I'm glad the stoma is working well - you sound glad to be be where you are. That makes all the difference in how we all get on with this new life. 

All the best,

Latestart

So happy to be eating again and hopefully I will gain a little weight before chemoradiation.

My surgeon had a look today and like you said, a little bulge, but nothing to worry about.

Thank you for the belt suggestion.

Ally

Thank you for your suggestions and support xx