I was told that as there are no nerve endings, I wouldn't be able to tell when my stoma was active. I can't always, but at other times I have a feeling of pressure that is uncomfortable and sometimes borderline painful, and sure enough my stoma is outputting. My abdomen is also 'harder' at the top of the stoma and there's often a sense of drag. The stoma nurse didn't seem to think there was a problem with a hernia. Do any of you get sensations when your stoma is working? Is that dragging sense something that will pass, or do I need to be thinking about a belt or something to support the bag? Am trying with the pocket inside briefs but haven't found the right fit yet. Any and all advice/ feedback gratefully received :)
Hi Elle55a30c and welcome to the group.
I’m not sure what type of stoma you have, but I have a urostomy and a colostomy. I can feel when the colostomy is working usually, and sometimes it can feel quite uncomfortable just before it “goes”. I’ve always put that down to the normal contractions there just before the output is coming out.
I’ve never had a hernia, so I don’t know what that would feel like but I don’t have any hardness in my abdomen. In terms of support belts, I personally don’t use them, but hopefully others who do can advise on them.
I also just wear normal underwear with no pockets inside-I’ve had 2 stomas for 5.5 years now, and I like to have some normality with my underwear! I’ve never worn any specialist stoma underwear or swimwear as for me I don’t feel that’s needed for me but lots in the group do so you should get some helpful replies about this.
I see from another post you are not long out from surgery, so I hope your recovery is going well. It takes a while for things to settle down, and for you get used to the new sensations but everything becomes second nature with a bit of practice!
Sarah xx
Developing a hernia was quite a fear for me too in the early days, especially with 2 stomas. I think it’s quite natural. Just be careful in your recovery as regards lifting and don’t try to do too much too soon as you’ll have healing going on inside and that takes a bit of time.
Nowadays, the thought of getting a hernia isn’t on my mind at all. I’ve become used to being careful over the years with things like lifting so I don’t think about it, but in the early days when everything is new we tend to worry more.
I found my stoma nurse in the Community invaluable when I was discharged, so do share any concerns with her-I found mine great for advice and support.
Sarah xx
