The topic is about the first time people see their stoma after surgery. It's a moment filled with a mix of emotions, and the discussion is about sharing those initial reactions and offering advice to help others through the experience.

- It's normal to feel shock, fear, or disgust at first, but these feelings usually fade as you get used to caring for your stoma and as it heals.
- Looking at pictures of stomas online before your surgery can help reduce the initial surprise.
- Give yourself time to adjust. The more you look at your stoma, the more you become accustomed to it, leading to acceptance.
- Some people find it helpful to give their stoma a name, like Stella or Seymour, to make it feel less intimidating and more like a part of them.
- Humor can be a great coping mechanism. Laughing at things like unexpected gas or funny stoma names can lighten the mood.
- For odor control, many recommend using Hollister M9 Odor Eliminator Drops to neutralize smells in the pouch. Also, be aware that certain foods can increase odor and gas, so it might take some experimenting to find out what affects you.
- To manage gas, you can "burp" the pouch when needed. If gas buildup is frequent, consider using filters or charcoal-filtered bags.
- Learning how to care for your stoma is crucial. Hands-on practice with a stoma nurse is very helpful, and taking photos can be a useful reference later. Changing your appliance might feel daunting at first, but with practice, it becomes easier.
- When it comes to surgical decisions, some people who had the option of a J-pouch or reversal are happy they chose to keep their ostomy, as it helped them avoid issues like chronic urgency or pain.
- If a surgery doesn't go as planned, remember that revisions are possible. You might need to advocate for yourself, and sometimes legal help is necessary to get the corrective procedures you need.
- Mental health is important. Experiencing trauma flashbacks, nightmares, or depression is normal, and seeking support from peers or counseling can be very beneficial.
- Even those who have had an ostomy for a long time might feel strong emotions after additional surgeries. Sharing your story can help you process these feelings.
- Establishing a regular routine for cleanliness and care, like emptying the pouch, taking care of your skin, and ordering supplies on time, can make managing your stoma feel more manageable.