Hi just wanted to say hi, I’m new to the group having had my op and stoma just over two weeks ago. I’m looking forward to any hints, tips , ideas, particularly once I start getting out and about a bit more ( feels a bit daunting at the moment) .
Hi again White lavender
I’m glad you’ve come to our group-I met you in the ovarian group where we had a chat.
One of the first things it would be useful to know is what type of stoma you’ve had? If we know that we can help give information and advice specific to the type of stoma as they do behave differently!
I have an end colostomy, so it’s permanent for me, along with my urostomy since I’ve also lost my bladder. As some general info, it takes time for stomas to heal and settle, and the size can change so it’s important in the early days to have your stoma measured regularly to ensure your bag is the correct size. Well fitting bags will reduce the risk of leakage, and there is normally a template supplied in boxes of supplies so you can measure it yourself. In the early days, my stoma nurse measured mine to ensure both bags were right.
It can be daunting at first going out and about, so I always carry a small bag of stoma supplies and a change of clothes in the car, just in case! Better to have these and not use them than to find yourself without, and it gives you a bit of extra confidence to know you can deal with an unexpected emergency. When I go abroad on holiday, take triple supplies some in my hand luggage and some in my case, and a change of clothes onto the plane,
I found a mattress protector very useful to save the mattress in the event of any leaks, and puppy pads which are inexpensive but save the sheet. I still take puppy pads with me to a hotel or if I’m staying with friends but don’t use them at home where I have my mattress protector.
With a colostomy I use a closed bag, so I don’t drain it and I would change it completely if I have anything in it as this feels more comfortable. With an ileostomy you are typically draining the bag into the loo on a fairly frequent basis, and with my urostomy, I’m just draining the bag into the loo throughout the day and connecting my bag to a larger night bag overnight which means no need for loo visits and a decent sleep!
I’ll leave it there for now until you can let us know your stoma type and others too will be along to help further. Glad to have you with us, and I hope you’ll find it helpful to be here. Between us we’ll be able to give you lots of hints and tips I’m sure.
Sarah xx
