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Relationships with an Ostomy

It's common to have some anxiety about relationships following ostomy surgery.
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Intimacy

While it's normal to feel insecure about how your ostomy changes your body, intimate encounters can be a part of your life. Communication and trust are at the heart of the rehabilitation process. It's comforting to know that intercourse won't hurt the stoma - and neither will you. Share your feelings with your partner and also answer their questions. With time and a positive attitude, you can enjoy a mutually satisfying sexual relationship.

Tips to improve your intimacy

  • Trust is the key to intimacy. The more you talk with your partner about your stoma, how you feel and what you need, the stronger your bond will be.
  • There is a true old saying: the way you see yourself influences the way people see you. Take time after surgery to recognize the changes your body has gone through, analyze your emotions about how you feel after the surgery, and share your feelings with your partner. You will find that your body's acceptance after surgery comes with time.
  • The stoma has no nerve endings; therefore, you will not feel pain or other sensations, but you may bleed a little if irritated. Trying different positions can help you avoid these types of problems.
  • The side-by-side position almost always works well for people who have a stoma, as the pouch will lie on the side and not between you and your partner.
  • Empty the pouch before initiating sexual intercourse. If you prefer, you can use a more discreet pouch on this day.
  • If your stoma makes you insecure during intimate moments, cover the pouch with lingerie or a pouch cover. 

For women

  • If you use oral contraceptive, you may have to change birth control, especially if you've had an ileostomy. Oral contraceptives are often not absorbed with the small intestine smaller. Talk to your healthcare provider about the best way to prevent pregnancy.
  • After surgery, many women experience vaginal dryness. Try using an intimate lubricant or talk to your doctor about other options for treating vaginal dryness.

For men

  • Some men may experience symptoms of erectile dysfunction or inability to ejaculate shortly after surgery. Don't worry. Dysfunction may be related to surgery or anxiety during intimate caresses. If problems maintaining an erection persist, talk to your healthcare provider who may be able to help.

A guide to intimacy after ostomy surgery

Although it’s normal to feel sensitive about how an ostomy changes your body, fulfilling intimate encounters can still be part of your life.

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me+ answers

Date night with an ostomy

With a little planning ahead, you can be sure to have agreat night out.
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Date night with an ostomy

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me+ answers

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Talking to your partner

It’s common to have some anxiety about how your partner will react to your ostomy.

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me+ answers

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me+™ Talk, an Ostomy podcast

The podcast that covers all things ostomy.

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Look great and feel confident

Ostomysecrets gives you everything you need to conceal and support your ostomy pouch, without sacrificing your personal style.

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Product Highlights

Natura® + Two-Piece Drainable Pouch with upgraded Invisclosure™ Closure

Natura® + Two-Piece Drainable Pouch with upgraded Invisclosure™ Closure

Natura™ Durahesive™ Moldable Skin Barrier with Accordion Flange

Natura™ Durahesive™ Moldable Skin Barrier with Accordion Flange

ESENTA™ Lubricating Deodorant

ESENTA™ Lubricating Deodorant

me+ Support

Living with an ostomy can take the right support. With me+ you don't have to figure it out alone.

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