An ileostomy reversal is a surgical procedure to reconnect the bowel after having an ileostomy, which is when part of the small intestine is diverted through an opening in the abdomen. This person is excited to have their reversal scheduled for July 10, two-and-a-half years after their initial surgery. They are grateful for the support and stories shared by others, which have helped them prepare for this next step.

Here are some helpful tips and insights for those undergoing an ileostomy reversal:

1. Be prepared for the bowel to take some time to adjust. Initially, you might experience frequent stools, diarrhea, and some discomfort as the bowel repopulates with microorganisms.

2. Stick closely to the diet plan provided by your surgeon. Introduce new foods gradually and see how your body tolerates them before moving on to the next.

3. Consult your surgeon about which skin-protective moisture barriers you can use and when you can start applying them. Once approved, use them generously to prevent irritation around the perianal area.

4. For more information and to set realistic expectations, read patient stories on the "Facts About Ostomy Reversals" page at https://www.ostomy.org/facts-ostomy-reversals/.

5. Prepare a few essentials to bring to the hospital and have ready at home:
- Baby wipes
- Boudreaux’s Butt Paste or a similar zinc-oxide barrier cream
- Preparation H ointment and wipes

6. From early personal experiences shared by others, it is common to hear bowel sounds, like gurgles, with little or no output two days after the reversal. This can be unsettling but is normal, especially if the bowel has been diverted for a long time, such as 18 months.