According to the UOAA (United Ostomy Associations of America), between 725,000 and 1 million people in the U.S. have an ostomy. If you’re about to have ostomy surgery or are new to living with an ostomy, you may have heard some of the common myths or misconceptions about living with an ostomy.
At 180 Medical, part of our goal is to help reduce the stigma surrounding ostomies and normalize it. Our Ostomy Product Specialists are here to help you not only with finding the right ostomy supplies for your unique needs but also to support you during this new transition as you adjust to life with an ostomy.
Let’s go over some of the common misconceptions about ostomies and clear it up with some facts. We want you armed with the right knowledge so you can start living your new life with an ostomy confidently and securely.
Five Common Myths about Living with an Ostomy
1. “Everyone can tell that I have an ostomy.”
People around you might never know you have an ileostomy, urostomy, or colostomy. Thanks to constant ostomy product innovation, ostomy pouch designs are becoming more discreet and low-profile.
For example, the new Convatec Esteem Body™ Soft Convex Pouches feature a discreet design that reduces sagging and bulging under clothes.
In fact, you can even go swimming or participate in sports while keeping your ostomy a secret. You may just need to wear an ostomy belt to keep your pouch secure.
2. “My ostomy bag smells bad.”
Fortunately, living with an ostomy doesn’t have to mean constantly worrying that other people can smell your ostomy bag. Not only have ostomy pouches advanced in their ability to be hidden, but their design has also evolved to better keep odors at bay. For example, many colostomy bags feature charcoal filters that slowly release gas while deodorizing.
The only time a modern ostomy pouch should produce an odor is when it is changed or emptied.
Talk to one of our friendly Ostomy Specialists at 180 Medical. We can help you find a product that may work best for your preferences and needs, including odor-reducing ostomy product options like ESENTA™ Lubricating Ostomy Pouch Deodorant.
3. “Intimacy is off the table forever now that I have an ostomy.”
One of the common ostomy myths is that you’ll never be physical with your partner again after ostomy surgery. Sexual intimacy while living with an ostomy is perfectly normal and enjoyed by many ostomates. First, make sure you’re fully healed post-surgery. Check with your physician to get the okay before engaging in physical activity.
After that, it’s possible you may go through some mental and emotional hurdles before feeling comfortable during intimacy with an ostomy. This is completely normal and natural. It may just take time.
If you’re in a relationship, talk out your feelings and find a routine that works well for both of you.
Also, you have options for keeping your ostomy more discreet. For example, you could use a wrap or lingerie from Ostomysecrets to conceal your ostomy. Another option would be a smaller ostomy pouch like a stoma cap or mini pouch, available at 180 Medical. Of course, mini pouches won’t last as long without changes as standard sizes. However, using a small stoma cap or mini ostomy bag may feel less bulky or in the way during physical intimacy.
4. “I’ll have to go on a strict diet after ostomy surgery.”
This is one of the more common ostomy myths. It’s possible that your doctor may not have rigid recommendations or restrictions on your diet after ostomy surgery. However, it depends on your unique body and needs.
For example, if you know that certain foods cause Crohn’s disease or IBD flare-ups, you may still want to avoid those foods in your diet. Talk to your prescribing healthcare professional about what is right for you.
5. “The skin around my stoma will be irritated.”
It’s true that keeping your stoma and surrounding peristomal skin clean is vital to the continued health of your ostomy. However, it’s not actually that difficult or expensive to clean. Irritated peristomal skin doesn’t have to be your reality with the right products.
A washcloth and warm water are typically the only tools needed for cleaning your peristomal skin. However, ostomy care products like ESENTA™ Adhesive Remover Wipes or Spray can be handy for removing stubborn pouch adhesives. You may also want to try a skin barrier prep wipe, such as the ESENTA™ Skin Barrier Wipes, which help protect the skin for up to 72 hours while reducing the risk of peristomal skin irritation.
Where to Buy Insurance-Covered Ostomy Supplies
Now that we’ve cleared up some common myths about living with an ostomy, you may have questions about the best ostomy supplies and accessories.
Our Ostomy Specialists at 180 Medical look forward to helping you adjust to your new life as an ostomate by providing you with our renowned compassionate service along with high-quality ostomy supplies online.
