There are several posts here about sex, so, I'm just adding another one. I've had my permanent ileostomy since 2015. I do not like it. I know that is surprising lol! But, it is what it is, and life goes on. After the surgery, I knew sex might be an issue. Maybe a bit physically, but, mostly mentally. To be honest, we were never one of those couples that had sex every day. But, we still had a good sex life. Ever since my ostomy, things have been different. I had body image issues before all of this, so, this only made things worse. When it comes to sex now, I am self-conscious about myself. My wife says she's okay with it and it doesn't bother her. She has been very supportive through this entire ordeal. But, I think it does bother her more than she is willing to admit. Lately, she seems very okay with just not having sex. I still have the want for sex, but, it's almost not worth the effort. At this point, it is easier for me to just masturbate to porn. I am curious if I am alone on any of this? Looking to hear from both sides of this... men and women, the person with an ostomy and the partners of. Feel free to post here or send a message if you feel more comfortable. I realize it's a bit of a sensitive subject. Thanks.

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Talking about having an ostomy can be uncomfortable for most people. Still, it's something you can't always avoid.
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Learn about some strategies that can make it easier to talk about your stoma.
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