Stoma or not?

Hi Michelle I have a stoma I had mine prior to treatment due to the tumour size and position . (Mine is inside and outside my bum ) All I can say is my stoma hasn’t given me a second of trouble and I forget it’s there most of the time ! It’s saved me a lot of pain !!! I’m very active and live on a farm. I’ve had to take it easy the first few months but now nearly 3 months on I’ve got my support belt and I’m starting to do a lot of things I did before !!! Any questions feel free to get in touch or reply on here . Hope your well Linzey Xxxx 

Hi and welcome to the group.  I'm sorry to hear you're still having issues.  Personally, I haven't had a stoma but several members of the group have and hopefully they'll let you know of their experiences . I see   has shared her experience with you. I do have bouts of mucous and as the skin in the area is sensitive this leaves me feeling very sore.  Bowel motions can be painful after treatment due to constipation or narrowing of the anal passage (stenosis). Stool softeners will help with constipation but clearly the issue with you is the leakage.  I'm wondering if there are any other options to help with this in addition to a stoma? Also, whether your doctors are suggesting a permanent or reversible stoma. This really is a big decision for you to take and you may it helpful to also post in the Stoma Support Group which you can access by clicking on the following link https://community.macmillan.org.uk/cancer_experiences/ileostomy-and-colostomy-discussions-forum/    All the best Bev x

Hi Michelle (),

I’m sorry that you’re still having issues following your treatment. The leakage is awful, I had it directly after both my surgery & after my treatment had finished but after treatment on already ultra sensitive skin it does make you very sore! Luckily for me this didn’t last for too long. I know it won’t cure the whole issue you’re having with painful BM’s etc., but have you been prescribed any kind of barrier cream at all? Have your Dr’s said the stoma would be a temporary measure to allow you to heal a little better/quicker or are you looking at it being permanent? Either way there are many, many people that go on leading normal active lifestyles with stomas & if it gives you relief from these awful side effects you’re left with then although it will be a difficult decision it has to be a serious consideration for you.  is a shining example on how to get to grips with a stoma. Also I see that Bev (1in1500) has given you the link to another forum that you may find useful to get a wider range of experiences & advice that may make your decision a little clearer. 

I hope you get some clarity & are able to make a decision soon.

Nicola