The Ostomy (Learning to Cope)

The Web Definition: (Ostomy)
An operation to create an opening (a stoma) from an area inside the body to the outside.

Adapting to life after colostomy, ileostomy or urostomy

There is so much to be said for all those people out there that are enduring the change in their lives and learning to cope with ostomies. It is not something that you can easily prepare yourself for, mentally or physically.
One of the first things I want to say is if you have a partner whether it be your girlfriend, boyfriend, husband, wife or your significant other who has gone through this change, you must remember that this is not about you. It is about your partner. A lot of times you want to help and be there for that person that has the ostomy but he or she does not want you there, you become offended and start feeling like you are the injured party. You start thinking "I care for this person and I want to be there. I don't care what she or he says....I'm going to do what is needed whether they want me to or not. Please remember this is not about you. This is major surgery so be well informed and become familiar with the emotional and physical outcome.

I am a Certified PSW and did my clinical in London. A great number of my patients were trying to recover from ostomy surgery, emotionally and physically. Because of my experience with my patients and what they had taught me has given me more of an insight of what really is happening in the minds of people living with an ostomy.

It takes time to become comfortable with an ostomy. Many questions run through your mind as you worry about your first ventures into the world outside your home. Can you go back to work? Can you ride your bike? Will everyone figure out you have an ostomy, or can you keep it a secret? Your recovery from surgery is 6 weeks or more but the recovery time of your mental state can be longer. Talking with someone who is or has been there will help you a great deal.
There is a forum http://j-pouch.org/groupee/forums which I highly recommend for information and to talk to someone who has already lived or is living in your shoes.