I am new here. I just wanted to introduce myself. My name is Chrissy and I am a mother of 4, just turned 40. A little about me... Last year I was diagnosed with cervical cancer (early stage). I had to have a radical hysterectomy (Jan 5, 2018). I ended up having complications afterwards. Although I was told beforehand that recto-vaginal fistulas were rare, it was possible... I was that unlucky person who got 3 fistulas. The surgeon nicked my colon during surgery and had to repair it. So that repair healed to the vaginal repair and left holes. I was devastated. Four weeks after the radical hysterectomy, I had to have an ileostomy (Feb 6, 2018). This whole ordeal has really taken a toll on me emotionally. I have cried almost every day until recently. This ileostomy is temporary, but it still sucks. The doc said about 8 months to see if the fistulas heal on their own. It's only been 4 weeks. Sex has been an issue. My boyfriend of 1.5 years shows no interest. I can't have sex due to the fistulas, however, there are other ways to please one another. Still... nothing in 2 months. He won't even look at my stoma. I have adjusted to it well, better than I expected. I'm certain he is grossed out by it. I even bought the cute black lace wrap from Ostomysecrets. I keep my bag clean. No odor unless emptying it on occasion. I even rinse my bag out every time I empty it. I have never felt so gross. I am not really sure what to do at this point. I know I am not alone. I am curious to see how others handle this situation.

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If you prefer the action of a team or contact sport, don't let minor concerns keep you from returning to it.
Having a stoma will mean planning ahead, but you can still participate.
Having a stoma will mean planning ahead, but you can still participate.
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