Summer with a stoma

Here’s hoping we get a summer so this blog is relevant.

One of the things I learnt quickly when I had stoma surgery was hydration is key! We can become dehydrated quicker than someone with a full digestive system. I find having a bottle with me at all times helps me to stay on top of it.

Ensure you use factor 50 sun cream on any scarring, especially news ones.

Swimming – do not let your stoma hold you back. You absolutely can go swimming. I used flange extenders the first few times but that was for my peace of mind more than anything. I say this a lot, us ostomates going swimming is probably more hygienic than the folk that poo out of their bums.

Clothing – I was worried about what I could wear in the summer, I am trying to be more adventurous and if my stoma bag shows or my scar pokes out the top of my shorts then so be it, it’s more than likely nobody will even notice… wear the shorts, wear the crop top, the bikini, cozzie, trunks, whatever it is, wear it.

If you’re a sweaty person in the heat, it may be worth changing your stoma bag more often, to avoid leaks, or double checking it is still secure, same for after being in and out of a pool, or using sun cream, these are all factors that can cause the adhesive not to last quite as long as you are used to.

Most of all, enjoy. Enjoy the sunshine, because a little bit a sun brings happiness.

Love,

Nikki ☀️❤️