For New Ostomates

This blog is for new ostomates. Although I have had my reversal for 8 months now, I wanted to share my story to maybe help someone. I had never heard of an ileostomy before my first surgery; my surgeon was explaining what could happen if my colon needed to rest after such an extensive surgery (8 hrs). Of course, I never expected to wake up with a "bag." The ostomy nurse showed me and my husband how to empty and how to change it. I was in such a fog that it didn't really sink in yet. The fun started when I got home! I will say at this point that all first ileostomies will leak!! (If yours does not, it will be a first!). We (me & my hubby) could not get the bag to stay on for a few hours at a time. My skin quickly broke down from the acid liquid stool. Your skin will be raw and weepy for a while, and you will have to play around with appliances until you find the one for you. Your stoma will also change sizes, so I would suggest using samples for a while. Your skin will "toughen" up and become calloused (yay!). I was depressed for the first month, but then I adjusted nicely and actually missed my little Rosie when I had my reversal, especially when my butt was on fire and the BMs were 15-20 a day! My advice if you are overweight and have a softer tummy, ConvaTec SUR-FIT Natura Durahesive - Flexible Skin Barrier with Flange (Cut to Fit) worked best for me as they have the ability to gently swell up and "hug" the stoma to help prevent leakage and protect peristomal skin. Awesome flange! Of course, there are other companies that may work for you; this is just from my experience as I am overweight and have a softer tummy! I will always keep up my profile on this website because I still consider myself an Ostomate! I realize how much we need each other and how much we can help each other out with stories, advice, and general support. Sometimes just reading about someone else's story lifts us up. We definitely can relate with all of our tummy troubles. You can read my story on my profile and feel free to ask any questions. Good luck and God bless!

Try the Opsite Flexifix tape around the outside of your flange/plate. I always get at least a week without leaks. Also, 3M barrier spray. It's called Cavilon. Leaks suck.

I'm new to this site and, having looked at various blogs and messages, wish I'd come sooner. I've had a stoma for around 2 yrs and I'm still struggling with it being a natural thing for me for the rest of my life. Looking at your posts (Latina63 and others) has been inspiring and most helpful. I often wonder if I'll ever get used to this.