Hi, I will be having an APR on 16th August to deal with a very early but awkwardly placed (right on sphincter!) rectal tumour. This will give me a permanent stoma and a Barbie Butt. I am anxious to avoid getting a hernia and wonder if anyone has any recommendations for high rise support knickers (as advised by the stoma nurse) that I can wear from the operation onwards.
Also, any other recommendations/hints/tips re dealing with the operation (I gather I will have a large open wound at the bottom end) and healing, and also dealing with the stoma afterwards.
Sorry for asking for so much at once but I am feeling rather overwhelmed and not a little frightened at the moment!
Many thanks in advance.
Jane
Yes, you should definitely get free support knickers on the NHS. I get six free pairs a year. They are great - high waisted and ribbed so offer great support. This helps with personal confidence. They come in black, white and nude and very hardwearing. I have quite a high up stoma and a stomach hernia which these pants support.
Kath
"don't think about tomorrow"
Hi, I hope all went well, regarding knickers, I wasn't given any advice so carried on with my usual underwear. High cut knickers from Asda, made from cotton with an elastic lace band. The band comes above my stoma and although they are cut high, I find they support the bag well enough as it is held snugly against my belly. Think they are about £7 for 5 pairs . Hope this helps. My operation was the beginning of June and was an emergency so totally not prepared, but glad to be alive.
Jan
hi, I get five pairs of knickers a year free from my stomacare suppliers- Securicare (the best company I have ever dealt with). They are lightly ribbed to provide support, come in black, white and nude and are high waisted. They are also very durable.
Your Stoma nurses should be able to advise you as to what you're entitled to and who you need to speak to. This company also supply stoma belts for extra support.
The pants and belts really helped boost my confidence. Belts also free of charge.
Kath
"don't think about tomorrow"
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