I just do not think I can bring myself to tell a potential lover that I am preparing to get an ileostomy. I know it is my own insecurities, and no matter how I try to think of it in a positive way, I end up with tears in my eyes, embarrassed and don't know what to say. I think if I was rejected, it would be devastating to me. Yes, I know it means I dodged a bullet, but I do not know how to tell this man. I almost think I should forget that part of my life and stop any further interaction with him. I do not want an ostomy, but I need one. Anyone go through this? I am an older woman and men are so much more visual and sex-oriented. I am having difficulties enough with the idea of living with an ileostomy and all the issues that could arise, but bringing a new person into my life seems almost insurmountable to me.

This is a remarkable community of 40,909 members.
You will get real advice from fellow ostomates who truly understand you - things you won't find in the books.
And it's not all about ostomy - there is friendship and relationships too.
Privacy is very important - your profile is not visible to the outside world.
Justbreathe
MeetAnOstoMate website turned out to be a lifesaver for me. I say this because, for me, this ostomy journey was a devastating event both physically and mentally.
Here, I found folks who understood my feelings even better than my family or friends could. Only a fellow ostomate can understand how you really feel.
Information sharing is key, as well as support and understanding, to ultimately bring more harmony into our ostomy life journey. I found here, virtually no ostomy questions that are not touched upon. Questions which some might feel, may be too trivial to contact a doctor about or even too shy or embarrassed to ask their own doctor about. They are all addressed here.
For me, anonymity was very helpful in seeking answers to each phase of this life changing medical and mental event. Sharing initial trauma feelings, ongoing support and finally acceptance was what I found with my membership here. I am not sure what my mental and physical attitude would be today without having found this site.
Additional benefits included: finding products and ideas to help with daily maintenance, innovative ideas and as a bonus - some great humor.
After all “laughter IS the best medicine”.
I have been a member for 3 years, an ostomate for 4 years - yes, I certainly wish I would have found it immediately after surgery but so very thankful I finally found it when I did as I truly believe it turned my troubled depression and situation into a more positive attitude and acceptance.
Sincerely,
An Ileostomate nicknamed Justbreathe 🫶🏼