Hi kimberley
If you have somebody who loved you previously, then I'm sure they still love you. Your life can continue once you can accept your circumstances. I was the same, and I now wear a level 1 hernia belt to cover my pouch when intimacy arrives. Be honest with yourself and your partner
Hi kimberleyheatherevans87,
You're definitely in the right place to find plenty of support from our large community. Many of us have been through similar experiences and are here to help.
It's completely normal to feel this way after such a significant change. You're not alone in experiencing touch aversion post-surgery. It can take time to adjust, and it's important to be patient with yourself. Some people find that gradually reintroducing touch in a controlled and comfortable environment helps. You might also consider speaking with a therapist who specializes in body image or post-surgical recovery. They can offer strategies to help you regain confidence and comfort with touch.
Congratulations on being part of this community! You'll find plenty of support, information, and some really cool people who understand what you're going through. We're all here to help each other out.
I've had my ostomy for 61 years now -- I was 15 and had been suffering from ulcerative colitis for several years. I'm now 76, and I had a very active life once I adjusted. I've certainly slowed down now, but I didn't let my ostomy stand in the way for many years. Good luck to you.
MeetAnOstoMate.org is the only place where people truly understand you. It's because everyone here has an ostomy.
Many come here for advice or to give advice, others have found good friends, and some have even built long-lasting relationships.
Privacy is very important - there are many features only visible to members.
Join our website with 39,388 members. You won't regret it.
Hi, Kimberley, the most important thing you should remember about your colostomy bag/stoma is that you are still enjoying a life that could have been totally different for you and your family. God bless.
Hi Kimberly, please don't feel alone.
I have the same thing. You just need
someone that is going through the same
thing. And you'd be surprised how this
would help you. I wish we were closer.
I would really help you. Joy USA
Hi Kimberly, I texted you once before.
I hope you received it because I am
exactly where you are ……
I was born with bowel issues, too. Battled my whole life. Got a bleeding diverticulum, and the hospital gave me C. diff on top of it. Ate my colon like acid. Ileostomy in 2019. I have an aversion to any contact with my "little buddy." When anyone hugs me, I turn a bit to the right, unconsciously. I know it's to avoid any touching to it. I wear a stealth belt and a stoma dome (if very active). I still turn away! You are a newbie. Take your time and be gentle with yourself. A pretty young woman like you will meet friends (men). You don't have to be intimate. Start with being a friend. If and when you feel comfortable with them, intimacy will come.
