What size are drain bags please? And any tips on how to live with them?

I was given one made by volunteers at the hospital through MacMillan - it had a handbag length wide fabric strap and just a pouch on the end measuring about 30cm by 30 cm. There are YouTube instructions or written ones online if you’ve got a friend who could make them fir you out of scrap fabric.  The cancer support Yorkshire site has instructions but there are lots more.  Was walking around with them straight away - important to get off your feet.  Mine was only in for a week and in that time I had no desire to go shopping or out for a coffee - I could have done if I’d really wanted to - I had people visit me.  At night I used a big v shape pillow and other pillows to make my nest - I tucked the drains in between pillows. I didn’t want to sleep with the straps around my neck but then you do need to remember to put them back on agsin if you need a wee in the night.  I showered my lower half with a handheld shower head avoiding the drains no problem.  In fact I scarcely remember having them now.  It’s a short “live with” thing compared to other joys of cancer treatment. Hope this helps.  

most of the time they just hang at your sides and you can wash up, potter about, go to the loo no problem.  They stay in there all or most of the time except when being emptied 

Hi Spider Rose

It is all very daunting I have to say. It sounds as if you are having two drains possibly I only had one and only for a week. The tube will come out the bottom of your top clothes so longer dresses not good. I had a bag which I got online it is about 10 x 8 cotton fabric so light. I used to sleep with it wedged beside me with two cushions. When showering I stood it on the side of the bath but had to be mindful of it. Just one tip check it is flowing and no blockages on tube.

I didn't go out until drain came out only to the hospital. But I guess you could. 

Take care and good luck x

Hi Spider Rose, I had a bag that measured approx. 39 x 39cm and handles 35cm. So it was about the size of 2 sheets of A4 paper laying landscape on top of each other. I was up and walking around with my drain (only had one) same day. I used to hang the bag over my neck or just hold it in my hand depending what I was doing. My drain tubes were fairly long so they just gently folded in the bag and the bottle & collection bag laid flat or sideways on the base of the bag. I didn't go out only for a short walk up the road and back. In bed I would half sit propped up against pillows and had the bag laying next to me under the duvet just loose not round my neck. My bottle just stayed in the bag and then when I had to drain or measure it I would take it out and then put it back after. I only had my drain for 5 days including day of op so I just washed down with a flannel. I found after the first day you kinda get used to it and it becomes automatic. I continued doing my exercises with it, that was a little more difficult but was possible and it keeps the arm and shoulders mobile. As for washing up and general household bits as no lifting allowed my husband and sons did that. I am very lucky they have been my rock and stones throughout my journey. I know its easier said than done, but try not to worry about the drain as you will soon find you adapt to having it quickly. Hope this helps.

Wishing you all the best for your op.

Hugs from cuffcake x x x x x

I have a drain bag that I didn’t use, the hospital gave me one that had been donated, private message me your details and I will post x

Thanks for the information, it is vary helpful

Thank you so much for your offer, I would be very grateful of the bag if you are able to send it. I have not been able to work out how to pm, so please can you pm me, then I should hopefully be able to see how to reply. Thank you

Best thing I bought was a zip up fleece with interior pockets from M&S. the drain fits perfectly and is not “hanging” low, it was placed perfectly and concealed. I was able to go out and about to the supermarket and there was no sign of any drains to the unsuspecting public. Hope they still have them in stock 

Hi, I've messaged you.