The purpose of creating this site is to share information about ostomy procedure and the change in life that tends to happen after ostomy surgery.
An ostomy is a scary procedure, especially for those who even do not hear this word before. Well, when your natural path of excretion gets angry with you, then you need a live-saving an artificial bypass to fulfill the discharge purpose. However, many ostomates do not know much about the process and after-effects. They seek help from friends, neighbors, not-so-professional nurses, doctors, and even from some fake online forums. Thus, they assume so many worst things regarding stoma and ostomy surgery. Well, I can only say that goes for the right paths of knowledge, ask the doctor who has suggested the surgery, and seek authentic online medical help. Otherwise, you will end up with fears and rumors. Well, some of the myths you must have heard or read are here below. You can read and decrease the level of vexation and fear.
An Ostomy is an Irreversible Surgery
Many people around you, will tell you various things about the ostomy, and one of the common rumors is that it is an irreversible procedure. Well, this is not true; yes, some ostomies are permanent like, urostomy and in a few cases it is ileostomy. But it does not mean that every stoma is permanent. It depends on the malfunction of the canal, ostomy type, disease.
You cannot Do Exercise
An ostomy surgery brings some panics for gym and athlete persons. Well, they get scared because they believe in rumors, they hear from different people around them. But, the gym or exercise is not a problem for any type of ostomy. You can play, gym, exercise, run, and follow your favorite sport, after the healing period.
Swimming will be the Biggest Problem
Ostomy patients think that they cannot swim now. But, this is not a problem for stoma or ostomates. It all depends on your healing and recovery speed. Once you and your stoma are fit, you can get back to swimming. Yes, here you need to be discreet about leakage; therefore, use a stoma collar or belt to protect the pouching system.
The stoma will Release Odor all the Time
Many patients suffer from the bad smell of the stoma; that is why they think every ostomy releases odor. No, it only depends on your hygiene and diet. If you have eaten something that causes gas and odor, then your stoma stinks; otherwise, not. Do not think that every opening creates gas noise and odor. Well, you can use sprays and deodorants to get rid of bad smells.
Ostomy Means No Physical Intimacy
Another fake news ostomates hear about the stoma is that you have to say goodbye to your sexual life. Well, this is a myth/rumor. The only change you will face after the ostomy surgery is your pathway of excretion. This does not change your sexual organs or their Location. Thus, you can do whatever you like, even sex. You only have to wait for the healing of internal organs and stoma. Moreover, you have to ask permission from your doctor for complete safety.
Stoma Means I am Unable To Give Birth
As I mentioned in the above paras, a stoma does not stop you and your activities. It only brings some lifestyle changes and care. In a few cases, when a patient has ovary cancer, she needs the removal of ovaries, then a person needs the ostomy, in such cases, she cannot have a baby. But, apart from this, in any other case, an ostomate can give birth. Even in a few cancer cases, there is no adverse impact on the fertility of a woman.
Your Travel Will be Problematic
After getting the stoma, ostomates afraid of going out. They give up on traveling and partying. They assume that it will be stressful for them. But, this is not true. You can go out, plan long trips, solo travel, everything is perfect as far as you care about your stoma and bag.
You will Have to Follow a Strict Diet
For the sake of a healthy stoma and active digestive system, you have to bring a few changes in your diet, but it does not mean that you will have to follow a strict diet plan. You only have to avoid foods that can cause gas, odor, loose motion, or constipation.