This topic is about preparing for potential accidents after an ileostomy reversal, which is when the intestine is reconnected to the remaining colon and rectum after surgery. Here are some helpful insights and advice for managing this transition:

1. General Outlook
- With only 7 inches of the sigmoid colon removed and an intact rectum, the reversal might be easier compared to cases where the small bowel is joined directly to the rectum.
- It's normal to experience frequent and urgent bowel movements initially, but this usually improves over time. There may be moments when you feel the ostomy was easier, but this feeling typically passes.

2. Accident Prevention & Bed Protection
- Be cautious with passing gas; it's safest to do so while seated on a toilet.
- Consider using adult diapers or large overnight pads to protect the bed in the early stages. Some people find comfort in wearing them even if they never soil the bed.
- Use disposable underpads or small waterproof pads on your side of the mattress for easy cleaning and to minimize disruption to your partner.
- Sleeping in a separate bed for the first few weeks can help reduce stress for a partner who is squeamish.

3. Recommended Supplies
- Moist wipes like Good Wipes (Coco Shea) for gentle cleanup.
- Soft toilet paper alternatives to avoid irritation.
- Adult diapers or large nighttime pads, and panty liners for daytime leaks.
- A&D Ointment or similar barrier cream to protect the skin; start using it before any soreness develops.
- White circular cotton makeup pads for applying ointment without contaminating the jar.
- Prep H wipes or individual stoma wipes for travel kits.
- Travel kits with wipes, ointment, spare liners, and a plastic bag for convenience.
- Waterproof mattress cover, along with towels or extra pads for added protection.

4. Self-care & Physical Preparation
- Walking at least a mile daily before and after surgery can help stimulate bowel motility and aid recovery.
- Pelvic floor therapy is highly recommended, even if some surgeons don't emphasize it. Specialists in colorectal and pelvic-floor health stress its importance for maintaining continence.

5. Diet & Stool Consistency
- There is no one-size-fits-all diet; introduce foods slowly and identify personal triggers. For example, some people tolerate sushi, beans, and kale, but a single peanut might cause issues.
- If possible, consult a dietitian who specializes in digestive health.
- Consider eating your main meal around 6 p.m. and having only light snacks afterward to reduce nighttime bowel activity.

6. Partner Considerations
- Reassure your partner that post-reversal cleanup is generally less intense than caring for a vomiting infant.
- Clearly divide tasks: you handle cleanup, while your partner can assist with non-contact tasks, such as aligning appliance bases if the ostomy is still present.

7. Long-term Possibilities
- Some people with J-Pouches use nightly pads for years, and a few choose to return to a stoma. Given your anatomy, with a longer colon remaining, you may experience better long-term continence, but staying open-minded and adaptable is beneficial.