You wake up from surgery and there’s your first pouch, already attached to you. Maybe it drains. Maybe it doesn’t. Either way, you’re going to have to change it periodically, and if it drains, you’re going to have to figure out that whole process.
Beyond changing and emptying, you may be wondering about other aspects of your life, now that you have a pouch. What happens when you shower? Speaking of water, can you still swim when you have an ostomy pouch? (Spoiler alert: yes!). How about sleeping – will you need to get up in the middle of the night to empty it?
Have more questions? Of course you do! It’s a whole new world! What should you do if you’re out and about and the only restroom available is “for employees only?” This article may help. Or maybe you’re worried about being able to dress just the way you used to now that you have a pouch you want to hide? We have an article and a video to help you with that.
Wondering if there’s anything you can put in that pouch to help eliminate odor? Yes, we have answers for that question as well.
You can find a few ostomy pouch basics here:
- How to Change Your Ostomy Pouch Video
- How to Empty Your Ostomy Pouch Video
- Helpful Tips For Everyday Stoma Care
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Can you tell me of any medication or pills I can take that eliminate or lessen odor? It seems to be worse in the mornings. I am going on vacation with friends and it can be very embarrassing.
