Topic Explanation
The discussion in the forum revolves around addressing post-surgery issues related to ileostomy, specifically focusing on bloating, pain under the ribs, and tips for showering with an ostomy and a port that needs to be kept dry. The original poster, Megan, expresses concerns about not being able to empty her bowels before surgery and the inability to empty her large intestines post-surgery. She seeks advice on managing these issues and asks for recommendations on how to effectively shower while keeping her ostomy and port dry.

Advice and Helpful Insights

1. Showering with an Ostomy:
- It is safe to shower with the ostomy bag on or off; the stoma is not harmed by water.
- Use fragrance-free and dye-free soaps to avoid interfering with the adhesive seal of the ostomy appliance.
- Some individuals prefer to shower without the bag and use various methods to catch output if the stoma is active during the shower, such as using a handheld container or a modified plastic cup attached to a belt.
- On days when not changing the ostomy bag, some use a shower cover to keep the bag dry, or simply dry the bag with a hairdryer on a low setting after showering.

2. Managing Bloating and Pain Post-Surgery:
- Post-surgical bloating can be due to air introduced during surgery and may take a few weeks to resolve. Walking and gentle movement can help expedite this process.
- If experiencing significant bloating and pain, consider a low residue diet and monitor your diet closely to identify any foods that may exacerbate the issue.
- Persistent or severe symptoms should be addressed promptly by a healthcare provider as they could indicate complications like a blockage.

3. Protecting the Port During Showering:
- Keeping the port dry while showering can be challenging. Some suggestions include using waterproof covers or creatively using plastic wrap or other waterproof materials to cover the port area securely.

4. General Ostomy Care Tips:
- Be cautious of activities that could strain the area around the ostomy, such as heavy lifting or vigorous coughing, to prevent the development of parastomal hernias.
- Consider using a support belt designed for ostomy patients to provide additional support and protection to the area.
- Regularly check and adjust the fit of the ostomy appliance as the stoma may change size and shape during