Stoma surgery can be a daunting prospect. By having an idea of what to expect in the days and weeks after surgery you may feel a little more comfortable.

During your stay in hospital, you will be supported in the self-care of your stoma by your stoma care specialist team. A few things to be aware of in those initial days are:

  • Your stoma is likely to be swollen, shape and size will change over the first few weeks.
  • Initially your stoma care will take time, do not worry this will improve over time and become part of your routine.
  • You may feel tired and emotional, that is normal. Allow yourself time and rest to recover.

Once you begin to gain confidence in your pouch changes you will know what works for you. Keep it simple.

Returning Home

On your return home, take things easy and get plenty of rest, remember you are still recovering. Standing and walking around your home may help with any abdominal swelling and help you feel more comfortable

Try not to pressure yourself during pouch changes, follow the guidelines of your stoma care specialist and as you become more confident you will find easier, it will become second nature only adding a short amount of time to your bathroom visit.

Activities to avoid.

In the first few weeks it is recommended that you do not lift anything heavy, push or pull anything with resistance, or operate any machinery. This advice is given to avoid herniation around the stomasite. Activities that fall into this area include but are not exclusive to the following:

  • Mowing the Lawn
  • Digging the garden
  • Lifting bins/Putting out the rubbish
  • Vacuuming
  • Moving furniture
  • Pushing a pram/pushchair, shopping trolley or wheelchair

Allow Recovery

Any surgical procedure requires recovery time. Be patient, allow yourself time to heal. In the long term, it will be worth it. You will know what your body needs, listen to it

Remember that your stoma is part of making you better, it does not define who you are.

** Any questions or concerns regarding your stoma pleasecontact your stoma care specialist team.

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