This topic is about finding the right time and way to resume sexual intimacy after undergoing ileostomy and adhesion surgery. The person is six weeks post-surgery and has not been able to engage in intercourse for about ten months. Both partners are eager to reconnect, but she feels her body is not fully healed yet. She has had difficulty getting guidance from her surgical team and is seeking practical advice based on experience.

Here are some helpful insights and advice:

1. General approach:
- Only begin when you feel physically ready. Take it slow, try different positions, and stop immediately if you feel any pain.
- If intercourse is uncomfortable, consider other forms of intimacy until you feel more healed.

2. Professional help:
- Consult an ostomy or wound-care nurse, as they are often comfortable discussing sexuality and stoma management.
- Ask your doctor for a referral to a pelvic floor physical therapist to assess tissue condition, atrophy, and adhesions.

3. Vaginal dilators and pelvic conditioning:
- Use a set of graduated dilators to gently stretch tissue and prevent or manage vaginal narrowing.
- Start with the smallest size and a good water-based lubricant, gradually working up to a size comparable to your partner before attempting intercourse.

4. Lubrication and tissue support:
- Consider using YES Organic Lubricant, which is chemical-free and water-based.
- Bezweken Vaginal Nutrition/Lubrication Cubes can help nourish and moisturize tissue.
- Discuss with your clinician the possibility of using low-dose DHEA supplements to support vaginal tissue resilience.

5. Managing dehydration and fatigue:
- Persistent liquid output can lead to electrolyte loss. While Pedialyte helps, you might need additional support.
- Athletes’ electrolyte powders or drinks can provide quick relief from fatigue. Check the sodium and potassium content and ensure the ingredients are safe for your stoma.
- A nutritionist familiar with ostomies can help balance fluids, electrolytes, and calories to combat exhaustion.

6. Emotional perspective:
- Practice self-monitoring and involve common sense in your recovery process.
- Keep communication open with your partner. Patience and a gradual reintroduction of sexual activity can help maintain confidence for both of you.

7. Miscellaneous tips:
- Test solo orgasm through masturbation to gauge pain levels before involving your partner.
- Vibrators or dildos can be used alongside dilators to rebuild comfort and pleasure.
- If you're concerned about output volume or texture, keep a log and discuss it with your ostomy nurse. Minor appliance adjustments or dietary changes can sometimes help thicken the output.