This topic is about dealing with a strong and persistent urge to have a bowel movement after having a temporary ileostomy. This sensation can be quite uncomfortable and disruptive to daily life, especially when no stool is present. Here are some helpful insights and advice for managing this situation:

1. After an ileostomy, it's common to experience mucus build-up in the rectal stump, which can create the sensation of needing to pass a bowel movement. Using a suppository to clear this mucus or allowing it to pass naturally can often provide relief. It's a good idea to talk to your stoma or ostomy nurse for guidance on how to manage this.

2. If the pressure is very strong and persistent, it's important to consult your surgeon or stoma nurse. This isn't a typical experience and should be checked to rule out any complications, infections, or inflammation.

3. Sometimes, the sensation might be due to tenesmus, which are painful rectal muscle spasms. These can occur even with a stoma and feel like an urgent need to pass stool. There are prescription medications available that can help relax these over-active muscles, so discussing this option with your doctor could be beneficial.

4. It's also wise to have your medical team check for any infections or inflammatory issues, as addressing these can help reduce the pressure and spasms.

5. Since you are about to start chemotherapy and will have long car journeys, it's especially important to find a solution that works for you. If you're looking for alternatives to suppositories, make sure to discuss all available options with your healthcare provider.