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Ostomies and Pregnancy – What You Should Know

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Whether you are already well into your pregnancy, or just beginning to talk with your partner about growing your family, questions and concerns about being pregnant with an ostomy are normal and expected. From the biggest question of ‘can I get pregnant with an ostomy?’, to general guidelines on health and nutrition, we have put together some information to help you along the way. Keep in mind that these are general tips, and every body and pregnancy is different. Should you have additional questions or concerns, you should consult your surgeon, OB-GYN, or WOC nurse to discuss further.

Can I get pregnant with an ostomy?

It is possible to conceive, enjoy a happy pregnancy, and deliver a healthy baby following ostomy surgery. If your surgery was recent, speak with your surgeon or WOC nurse to discuss timing, as you will want to allow time for your body to heal. While having an ostomy generally should not affect your ability to get pregnant, it’s possible that the disease and treatment that led up to your surgery may have had an affect on your fertility. There are at home tests you and your partner can take to determine likelihood of conceiving, or you may wish to make an appointment with your doctor.

Your Stoma May Change in Shape and Size

Your stoma as well as your peristomal skin (skin surrounding the stoma) will most likely change in shape and size with your growing belly. You may need to use extra accessories or even change your pouching system type during pregnancy, as well as postpartum while your body is growing and changing. Take frequent measurements of your stoma to ensure you are using the correct opening size, as the stoma may enlarge with pregnancy.

As your belly grows – depending on the placement of your stoma – it might become difficult to see it when you are changing your pouching system. Use a mirror to help you see those challenging angles. You may also require a second mirror (such as a hand mirror) to get more perspective.

Hydration and Nutrition

With any ostomy, and especially with an ileostomy, hydration is very important. Many women with ostomies make it through their pregnancies with no complications. If you have an ileostomy, there can be risk of intestinal obstruction where the growing uterus blocks the intestinal passage, keeping the stoma from working properly and causing cramping pains. A brief liquid diet can help to free up the blockage, be sure to consult your doctor or WOC nurse for more information or if this problem persists. Keep in mind that chewing your food well and drinking more than the suggested amount of water for the day can help immensely with digestion.

Oh, and enjoy those maternity pants, you may never want to switch back!

 

Comfort Medical does not practice medicine. The recommendations and information in this material are not medical advice. Contract your healthcare provider for personal medical advise or diagnosis. If you think you have a medical emergency, dial 911.

Enjoying Winter Sports With a Stoma – Tips for Preparedness, and Caring for Your Stoma. 

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If your 2019 New Year’s resolution was to be more active, you still have time to make your goal a reality. This winter, why not bundle up and head out on an outdoor adventure for a weekend? Snowy mountains mean plenty of fun activities for you and your friends or family. With just a little extra planning, you could be skiing, snowboarding, sledding, or ice-skating this winter.

If you were an avid skier or snowboarder before your surgery, you will be happy to know that you can continue with your sport. There are a few things to keep in mind when participating in these activities. While your stoma shouldn’t stop you from being active, fully allowing your body to heal is crucial. Here are a few tips to remember as you plan your winter activities.

Ease Back Into it

Naturally, you are going to be eager to get back to the same level of activity you experienced before your surgery. If you were an avid skier or snowboarder before your surgery, be patient with yourself as you gradually increase your time on the slopes. Consider hiring an instructor again to help teach you to fall correctly and with your pouch in mind.

When you aren’t on the mountain, consider exercises that can help you with form and balance. The stronger your body is, the more you can avoid falling poorly. Training your core will help with your winter sports activities, but will also help you stay fit all year long.

Pack Extra Supplies

It’s good to be prepared in case of any accidents. Packing extra supplies, including accessories, will help you to feel more confident and ready to hit the slopes. Whether heading out on a day trip, or if you are packing for a longer vacation, you won’t regret being over-prepared. Many powders, wipes, and pastes are available in small sachets perfect for travel or on the go. Consider ordering free samples to find the right accessories for you and your body. 

Stay Hydrated

Anytime you are participating in activities that require extra exertion, you should remember to hydrate more than your normal daily amount. Consider carrying a refillable water bottle so you have access to water throughout the whole day and trip. A hydration backpack can also come in handy as you will have access to water hands-free and these packs often have extra storage spaces where you can hide supplies should you need them quickly. Staying hydrated is especially important if you have an ileostomy as you need more than the recommended amount of fluids per day. Drinks high in electrolytes can help balance your body’s fluids as they contain potassium and sodium, which help your body absorb liquid better.

Many people with an ostomy are happy to report that they are able to do more following their surgery than before. Of course it is important to go slow and allow your body to completely heal, but it’s unlikely that you will have many limitations. If you are struggling to figure out which products work best for you, and you need someone to talk to, consider enrolling in Coloplast Care® – a free support program with personalized support for your daily life with an ostomy.

These tips are general guidelines and should not replace information that has been given to you by your physician. It is important to follow the advice of your healthcare professional.

Tips for Celebrating Thanksgiving with an Ostomy

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The holiday season is upon us, which means beautiful fall colors, crisp fresh mornings, and celebrating with loved ones gathered around tables. The thought of Thanksgiving this month conjures up ideas of cozy sweaters, loud full houses, and turkey with all the fixings. It can also bring up nerves and insecurities about your ostomy. Don’t let these fears get in the way of making memories with family and friends.

With just a bit of extra planning and preparedness, you will be able to focus more on your loved ones and less on the ‘what-if’s’ of your ostomy. Here are some helpful tips for getting through the holidays.

Attire

It’s possible that not everyone who will be at your Thanksgiving dinner is aware of your ostomy.  Although you can pretty much count on loud conversation to drown out all awkward noises, we’ve all thought about that one moment where everything is silent just before a Thanksgiving toast. If you are nervous of sounds your ostomy might make at this less than opportune moment, you might want to consider layering your clothing to help muffle noises.

Often a tighter undershirt or tank top paired with high-rise pants, leggings or an ostomy support belt can help to hold things in place as well as muffle noises. A bulky sweater can also help to control noise volume and conceal your pouch if you are feeling insecure about someone seeing it.

Packing Extra Supplies

This can’t be said enough: Pack extra supplies and clothes in case of accidents, but also because large amounts of food can increase your output. Planning ahead and being extra prepared will ease your mind and keep your focus on the day and the people around you.

If you use any accessories, be sure to bring them as well as extra pouches. Skin wipes can be handy for quick clean up, and you might also want to pack a deodorizer to avoid any unpleasant odors when changing your pouch.

Traveling Tips

Whether traveling by car, train, bus, or plane to your Thanksgiving celebration, you will want to be prepared. If you are flying, you will want to be sure to check the airlines baggage size allotment and liquids restrictions before packing. Pack as many of your supplies as possible into your carry-on so that you have them with you on the plane, but also to avoid any problems with lost luggage. You will want to bring extra pouches, barriers, and any accessories you usually use. Many accessories come in smaller travel-sized packets. You may also want to pre-cut your barriers as scissors and other sharp objects can be taken away at security.

Traveling by bus, train, or car usually means you have fewer limitations on what you can bring. Feel free to over-pack if it makes you feel more confident and less worried. As a rule of thumb, bring two to three times as many supplies as you think you will need. It’s always better to return home with extra than to not have what you need on your trip.

Feasting Tips

If you’ve had your ostomy for a while, you will probably be familiar with what foods your body has a harder time processing, and which cause more gas. While each body is different, there are some foods that are known to be hard for digestion and cause blockages. Here is a list of common foods that can cause problems because they don’t break down easily:

  • Nuts
  • Seeds
  • Popcorn
  • Dried Fruit
  • Mushrooms
  • Raw-Crunchy Vegetables

If you are unsure if a dish contains one of these things, be sure to ask the host. If you are worried about being able to eat foods at your Thanksgiving celebration, offer to bring a dish of your own to share.

Remember to chew your food well and keep hydrated. Avoid fizzy beverages as these can also cause excess gas. Many people will fast during the morning and then overeat for Thanksgiving dinner. Instead, try eating one or two smaller meals before and smaller portions for Thanksgiving dinner.  Ask the host if you can take home leftovers to enjoy later.

Thankfulness

While it can be hard adjusting to an ostomy, there’s a chance that having this surgery saved your life in one way or another. Accepting your ostomy doesn’t mean that it’s always going to be easy and without accidents and frustrations, but it’s possible that you were dealing with an illness that kept you confined to your home, or unable to enjoy activities. If this was the case, having your ostomy will empower you to do many of the things you were unable to do before. Keep this in mind while you celebrate, laugh, and dine with your loved ones!

Join Us in Celebrating WOC Nurse Week!

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Here at Comfort Medical, we have the utmost respect and appreciation for the Wound, Ostomy, and Continence nurses who take such great care of our clients. So, this week (April 14 – 20, 2019), we’re joining The WOC Nurse Society in celebrating these nurses and the services they provide. In light of WOC Nurse Week, let’s take a look at what these healthcare workers do, the training they go through, and why they deserve our praise and recognition!

What Does a WOC Do?

As you probably know, a WOC nurse treats patients who have wounds, ostomies, and continence disorders. This could include educating patients and fellow healthcare workers on the prevention and treatment of pressure sores during hospital stays, teaching new ostomates how to care for their stomas post-surgery, and providing education on various catheterization methods. WOC nurses can also help patients choose the ostomy and catheter products best suited to their needs and should be the go-to person when it comes to any issues concerning daily care routines.

What Kind of Education Is Needed to Become a WOC Nurse?

Although each state has slightly different requirements, in most cases, a WOC nursing program applicant must already be an active registered nurse with a Bachelor of Science degree. Once accepted, students attend courses specific to wound, ostomy, and continence care and typically, must complete several hours of clinical practice as well. The final step is to pass the WOCN Certification Board exam. However, the work is far from over even after earning their stripes. Every five years, WOC nurses are required to re-certify, which entails either passing another exam or proof that they have remained involved in the field through various activities such as continuing education credits, research, or teaching. Rest assured, your WOC nurse has gone through rigorous training in order to provide you with the best care possible!

What Can You Do to Celebrate WOC Nurse Week?

If you’re reading this as a WOC nurse, we thank you for your service! Take some time this week to acknowledge the importance of your work and the impact you have on your patients. You can also enter the WOCN Society photo contest by posting pics of yourself on social media and including #WOCNurseWeek2019. Check out the WOCN Society website for more information.

If you’re reading this as an ostomate or catheter user, reach out to your WOC nurses and let them know how much they are appreciated. Downloadable and printable thank you cards and certificates of appreciation are available on the WOCN Society website. You can also use social media to give your favorite nurse a shoutout using #WOCNurseWeek2019.

Comfort Medical Is Here to Help

Did your amazing WOC nurse recently suggest a different product than what you’re currently using? Reach out to Comfort Medical, and we’ll help get those items delivered directly to your door! A product specialist is waiting to assist you at 1-844-700-7036. Talk to you soon!

Tips for Cold Weather Stoma Care 

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For most of the country, we’re now well past those summer months that can make stoma care a sticky, sweaty mess. But that doesn’t mean all of our personal hygiene problems will cool off with the declining temperatures. For those of us living in climates that require bundling up during the winter, take these tips into consideration for a smooth transition into the holiday season and the frosty months that follow.

Keep an Eye on Your Skin

With cold temperatures comes dry skin, which often leads to irritation if neglected. Tending to parched peristomal skin can be tricky since traditional moisturizers interfere with the sticking power of ostomy barriers. Instead of slathering on lotion, check the humidity level in your home. If you don’t already have one, a hygrometer (a device for measuring humidity) is an inexpensive investment that will prove useful for years to come. Other ways to determine if your home is lacking atmospheric moisture include frequent itchy throat, chapped lips, and the presence of blood when blowing your nose. Switching on a humidifier, at least in the bedroom, may be enough to solve your flaky skin problems. 

If excessive dryness leads to broken skin, you may need to pick up some products such as Coloplast’s Brava Powder to help reduce further irritation and aid in keeping your wafer securely in place. As always, your healthcare specialist can provide product suggestions and determine whether further care is needed.

Resist the Urge to Overindulge at Holiday Gatherings

Don’t make stoma care harder on yourself by binging this holiday season. If you haven’t already figured out which foods or food combinations cause issues with your stoma, start journaling now in anticipation for upcoming feasts and get-togethers. We all tend to gluttonize this time of year whether it be at family gatherings or work outings, so if you plan on deviating from your usual staples, be prepared for the potential consequences. Since these meals often take place outside of the home, make sure you have extra supplies with you in the case of unwanted odors, leaks, or blowouts. Keeping a change of clothes handy is never a bad idea, either.

Practice Overall Healthy Habits

Unfortunately, cold and flu season is synonymous with winter, but there are steps you can take to avert these ailments. Viral and bacterial infections are highly contagious, and we’re especially susceptible when in close contact with someone who is already infected. It’s no secret that the eyes and mouth provide easy entryways into the body for germs, but don’t forget, your stoma is also vulnerable. Take common-knowledge handwashing advice to heart and do it thoroughly both before and after changing your appliance. Implementing additional healthy habits such as proper hydration, sound nutrition, adequate sleep, and regular exercise can also help stave off sickness. 

If you do catch a cold or come down with the flu, be aware that intense coughing and sneezing can cause parastomal hernias. Some ostomates find holding their hand over their stoma and applying light pressure when coughing or sneezing (or even during a laugh attack!) helps. Others prefer wearing a support belt that compresses the area and holds everything in place. 

A compromised immune system can also change the consistency, odor, and amount of output from your stoma. This typically isn’t reason for alarm, but be sure to alert your doctor in case further examination is necessary.

Reach Out

No matter how careful you are or what season it is, no one is immune to stoma complications. You can, however, do your best to keep your stoma functioning smoothly through proper skin care, common sense, and overall healthy habits this winter. If issues arise, contact your doctor, and then reach out to Comfort Medical at 1-844-700-2109 for assistance in finding the right product to address your needs. 

None of the information contained in this post is intended to override the instruction provided by your healthcare professional. 

The First Year With an Ostomy

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Are you wondering what your life will be like over the next year as a new ostomate? Everyone’s situation is unique, and your ostomy experience certainly won’t be identical to anyone else’s. Details and specifics will differ from person to person. However, most ostomates go through similar stages over the first year. We like to break it down into three steps:  surgery, recovery, and acclimation.

Surgery

So you just learned you need an ostomy. What’s next? Whether the term ostomy is new to you or not, take the time to do a little research. Talk to your doctor, search online forums, and look for a support group in your area to connect with other ostomates. Most importantly, don’t be embarrassed to ask any questions weighing on your mind. You’ll be relieved to know you’re not the first person to wonder about those subjects that may feel awkward to talk about.

Be sure to read our blog post on Prepping for Ostomy Surgery for a more detailed look at ways to get ready for your operation.

Recovery

After surgery, pain and discomfort are inevitable. But you can help your body heal in a timely manner with proper nutrition, rest, and patience.

During recovery, it’s a good idea to avoid eating large meals. Copious quantities of food may be too much for your digestive tract to handle as it’s adapting to its new way of functioning. Small portions of bland, easily digestible foods are your best bet for the first few weeks post-operation. Remember to eat slowly and chew thoroughly. Once your doctor gives you the green light, start reintroducing your favorite foods one at a time and observe how your stoma reacts. If your pre-operation go-to meals weren’t health-promoting, now may be a good time to break those bad habits and opt for better nutrition. Try to schedule meals at the same time every day and keep a journal of what you consume. This will help you determine your stoma’s activity level in relation to when and what you eat.

Getting a good night’s rest is especially important during the recovery phase, but it can also be a struggle. Initially, you may have to set an alarm to go off periodically throughout the night to check the quantity of output in your pouch. Play around with what’s on your dinner plate and the time you eat in relation to bedtime. If you’re experiencing nighttime blowouts, try eating earlier in the evening, and always empty or change your pouch just before going to sleep.

Take a look at our post on Tips for Better Sleep After Ostomy Surgery for more suggestions on drifting off to dreamland.

Finding your ideal appliance is also part of the recovery process. Since your body will likely change during the weeks following surgery, it is important to keep an eye on your stoma to monitor changes in shape and size. Most people will end up testing several types or brands of pouching systems until they find one that works well for them. Don’t hesitate to contact Comfort Medical for help deciding which appliance is best for your body. 

Acclimation

Once your body has healed and your stoma has stabilized, you’re free to get back into your normal groove! Many ostomates go through emotional ups and downs as they return to work or school, which is completely normal. Taking the time to plan out your daily ostomy care routine beforehand can ease some of the anxiety associated with being away from home for the first time after surgery.

Fortunately, our blog is full of information to help you get back to living life! Some of our favorite posts include:

You’re Not Alone!

We certainly can’t predict every detail of your first year as an ostomate; it is sure to be as unique as you are yourself. Just remember you’re not alone. Peers and health professionals are there to lean on when things get rough. A positive attitude and patience go a long way, and before you know it, your ostomy routine will be second nature!

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