Life with Ostomy

All types of travel are available to you. Many people with ostomies who want to travel do so extensively. They go camping, take cruises, and fly around the world. Take enough supplies to last the entire trip, plus some extra, double what you think you might need. Carry an extra bag system and other supplies on the plane, checked luggage sometimes gets lost. If you are traveling by car, keep your supplies in the coolest part of the vehicle and avoid the trunk or areas in full sunlight. Seat belts will not harm the ostomy if they are adjusted comfortably.

When traveling abroad, take an adequate number of supplies, referral lists for doctors and medical centers, and some medication to control any diarrhea and electrolyte changes. When going through customs or baggage inspection, use the Travel’s Communication Card offered by organizations such as the Ostomy Canada Society and a note from your doctor stating that you need to carry ostomy supplies and medications. The CATSA website is also a great resource for information on how to prepare for air travel.

Sexual relationships and intimacy are important and fulfilling aspects of your life that you should continuing to enjoy after your ostomy surgery. Your attitude is a key factor in regaining sexual expression and intimacy. A period of adjustment is expected after surgery. It is normal to feel like you are doing things for the first time. Discuss any problems with your doctor, sex therapist and/or ostomy nurse.
If you are trying to become pregnant, your ability to conceive will not change and pregnancy and childbirth should be normal following ostomy surgery. However, you should discuss with your doctor if you are thinking about becoming pregnant.

With very few exceptions, you can wear the same clothes you were wearing before the procedure. There are many pouch systems available today that will not be noticeable even if you are wearing the most stylish, form-fitting clothing.

You may find belts or some waistbands uncomfortable or restrictive, depending on the location of your stoma. Wearing clothes with higher or looser waistbands is one option. Some companies have custom-made ostomy underwear and intimate apparel, as well as abdominal belts that can be useful in limiting pouch movement during exercise and other daily activities.

Depending on the type of ostomy surgery, there may be some changes in your diet. Most people with colostomy and ileostomy surgery return to their normal diet after an adjustment period. Introduce foods back into your diet a little at a time and observe the effect of each food has on ostomy function. Chew your food well. It’s important to drink plenty of fluids because having all or part of your colon removed will affect your body’s ability to absorb fluids. Talking to a dietitian who is familiar with ostomies can provide valuable guidance.

Showering or bathing with or without your pouch on is entirely up to you. If you prefer to shower or bathe with your pouch removed, you can. The stoma will not be affected by normal exposure to air or water, and water will not enter the opening. Some people prefer bathing at times when their bowels are less active. You can also leave your pouch on while bathing or cover it with plastic to keep it dry.

You can return to your normal activities as your strength returns. Most people can return to their previous jobs. However, communicate with your healthcare team about your daily routines so they can help you return to maximum health as quickly as possible. You may want to seek out other ostomates (people with an ostomy) on social media, in support groups, or through CCC to gain insight from their lived experiences. 

People who live with ostomies bike, swim, ski, jog, play team sports, do yard work, play with their children, and climb mountains – the activities that can be done by ostomates are limitless. Keep in mind that it will take time and adaptation to be comfortable with your ostomy and to reintegrate these activities.

A stoma protector may be a good idea for some contact sports. Talk to your healthcare provider about strengthening your abdominal muscles, as some activities increase the risk of a hernia.