This topic is about dealing with the emotional ups and downs after experiencing an emergency colostomy and the loss of a pregnancy. The person sharing their story is a 38-year-old who went through a very challenging time. After a ruptured ectopic pregnancy, she had emergency surgery, which almost resulted in the loss of both fallopian tubes. Shortly after, she had another surgery due to unexplained abdominal pain, which revealed a perforated colon. This led to part of her colon being removed and a colostomy with a J-pouch being created. Complications kept her in the hospital for nearly a month, and she spent two more months at home in severe pain. Now, she is dealing with the emotional impact of having an ostomy and is seeking advice on how to stay positive and manage her feelings.

Here are some pieces of advice and insights shared by others:

1. Perspective and Gratitude
- Some find comfort in their faith and the fact that they have access to medical care. Remembering that things could be worse can help keep negativity in check.
- Using humor, like joking about the "baggage," can help lighten the emotional load.

2. Accept and Express Your Emotions
- It's normal to have emotional swings after such trauma. Allow yourself to feel angry, sad, or scared without feeling guilty.
- Give yourself permission to have a brief "pity party," then try to move forward.
- Journaling or writing poetry can help externalize worries and serve as a therapeutic outlet.

3. Practical Coping Tools
- Focus on the next tangible milestone, like the upcoming reversal, to help calm anxiety.
- Set small physical goals, such as light walking or enjoying favorite foods, to rebuild strength and regain a sense of control.
- Find clothing that flatters your ostomy profile. Retail therapy and outfits that make you feel good can boost confidence.

4. Lean on Support Networks
- Family, partners, and friends can make recovery easier, so let them in rather than isolating yourself.
- If you feel irritable, take brief alone time, then apologize and talk through any issues.
- Use forums or private messages when you need someone to listen; remember, you are not alone.

5. Long-Term Outlook
- Many long-term ostomates report that life does improve over time, and you eventually take control of your ostomy.
- Remember, you are still the same person, just with a bag attached, and you have already survived the hardest part.