Stoma Care Guides- Understanding your feelings
1. Making the decision to talk about your colostomy
To tell or not to tell? It is most important to preserve your relationship with family and friends and to form new friendships. Only you can decide who you should tell; the decision is up to you. Obviously you would need to involve your partner and you may feel more comfortable telling your children together. Please remember, having a colostomy has not changed who you are, you are still the same person you were before surgery. It may take some time to come to terms with your altered body image, just remember help is at hand. If you would like to talk to someone who has a colostomy call our Helpline on Freephone 0800 328 4257.
Marital relationships are especially important. Your partner knows you have had surgery, and may be afraid of hurting you. To cherish your relationship you will need to sit down and talk about how you both feel. Patience and understanding will be required by both of you. Think of how you can adapt to any weakness in stomach muscles using pillows or positioning. Be prepared to seek help from your stoma care nurse or a professional counsellor, if you feel you need to.
2. Will it affect my sex life?
Your surgeon can explain if any sexual impairment is likely and how this can be overcome. Obviously he will do everything possible to avoid affecting the sex organs through surgery. Impotence may occur which may or may not be permanent. There can be nerve damage to the male sex organs, and scarring or narrowing of the vagina causing discomfort for a woman during intercourse. Discomfort can be temporary or in some cases may be permanent. Medical help and advice can be sought. Should you experience any such problems do not be embarrassed to discuss them with your surgeon or stoma care nurse.