I've had my ileostomy since 2016 (UC). Aside from pretty much losing everything since, not all necessary due to my ostomy, I've only grown to hate my ostomy more over the years. I am well aware it saved my life, nonetheless, I still hate it. I work a retail job making far less than I was making years ago. I have to wear a hernia support belt almost all of the time except at home. Not even taking into account the inconvenience of putting it on before I want to do anything and the inconvenience of using the bathroom, but the belt is just physically uncomfortable. I walk daily, but the belt makes this simple task uncomfortable. Obviously, this brings judgment from the opposite sex, which you will say is their problem. But if I can't meet people, it's also my problem. I've been divorced for 3 years and have met no one. I do online dating sites and when they find out about my ostomy they disappear, only want to be friends or I get pity. I'm divorced, moved back home because I can't work full time and was denied disability (prior had a liver transplant, I have osteoarthritis and joint issues and depression and anxiety). And I'm uncomfortable every day. Sorry for the long post/rant. Maybe I just seem ungrateful, I don't know. I just hate the preparation and effort that is needed just to simply leave the house. Don't even know if I want support or if I just needed to vent. Does anyone else feel like this years later?

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Scuba_diver1972
Meetanostomate has been a great avenue and resource to meet new people with the same challenges, fall in love, fall out of love but most of all fall out of loneliness that comes with self-doubt…
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Hollister
Going into labor and giving birth with a stoma should not be causes for worry. However, there are a few things you should know.
Read our 6 tips to prepare for childbirth with an ostomy.
Read our 6 tips to prepare for childbirth with an ostomy.
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Hollister
If you’re expecting a child, it’s an exciting time for you and your family. And there’s no reason why having a stoma should negatively affect your pregnancy.
Learn about what to expect during pregnancy.
Learn about what to expect during pregnancy.