Topic Explanation:
The forum topic is about dating with a stoma, specifically when and how to disclose it to a potential partner. The original poster shares their experience and asks for advice on navigating dating with a stoma.

Advice and Insights:
- Do not wait until the last minute to disclose having a stoma to a potential partner.
- Look for a partner with a kind, caring heart who sees more than the stoma.
- Be patient and choosy about who you spend time with, and date a lot of people to build confidence.
- There are tips and tricks to make dating and sex smoother for individuals with a stoma.
- It's important to be brave and take a risk when disclosing having a stoma to a potential partner.
- Seek a partner with depth and substance who is interested in getting to know you beyond the stoma.
- If embarrassed or ashamed of the stoma/body image, the partner/date may feel the same way, leading to a potential disaster.
- Consider the direction of the relationship when dating someone and let sexual intimacy unfold naturally.
- Open communication is crucial, and discussing potential issues openly with a partner is important.
- Confidence allows individuals to move forward in love despite their shortcomings.
- Practice self-compassion and become a friend to your body to overcome negative body image.
- Use products like M9 to manage odor and seek advice for any stoma-related issues.
- Being upfront about having a stoma from the beginning can lead to successful relationships.
- It's reassuring to hear positive experiences from others who have successfully navigated dating with a stoma.