Sorry, this is so long but y'all are the only ones I have to talk about this to. I've had my loop sigmoid colostomy since 6/4/2018. I had a bit of mucus with my ileostomy 6 years ago, so I understand with a loop some stuff can pass to the rectum. Had a scare earlier, I hope not TMI, but I'm worried! I had a "lot" of mucus stool along with undigested food pass 2 times and both times it was a LOT!!!! I had a feeling this last 9th bottom fistula surgery had failed so I tried to prepare myself for the news. Saw my colorectal surgeon on 9/4/18, she confirmed my worries by saying there is nothing more she can do "down there". She is giving me until after the holidays to remove my rectum and make my colostomy permanent. Like I said, I was worried about that but to hear her say it just confirmed my worst fear. I know there are lots of people that have them and lead full lives, but until it's YOU, it's different, at least for me anyway. I have total fecal incontinence so I suspect that's why I've been messing myself at times with just a bit of mucus and poo. I can't feel it come out and I have NO sphincter control at all in my rectum. So either permanent colostomy or the constant worry of shitting my bed with no control, or diapers at 43!!! I'm sure someone here has the "Barbie Butt". She explained it would be a pretty big surgery. Any advice on recovery time, thoughts, or ways to help me try to cope?

Why Join MeetAnOstoMate?
First off, this is a pretty cool site with 40,166 members.
But, it's not all about ostomy. We talk about everything.
Many come here for advice, others find lasting friendships, and some have even found love.
🔒 Privacy is very important - your profile is not visible to the outside world.
40,166 members
Advertisement
Hollister
We conducted a survey to better understand the impact that living with an ostomy has on sleep.
Learn the results of our ostomy sleep survey.
Learn the results of our ostomy sleep survey.
Advertisement
Hollister
Your stoma care nurse can be a valuable resource when you need help.
Learn about the common issues and symptoms that warrant a call for assistance.
Learn about the common issues and symptoms that warrant a call for assistance.