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Body Image is the way a person views how his or her body looks, smells, and appears to others. Many
sexual problems patients experience after ostomy surgery are based on information.
Some Myths and Truths
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 Women can not get pregnant after ostomy surgery.
Research has shown that women with stomas can and do get pregnant and have healthy babies. However, they should be followed carefully by appropriate healthcare professionals throughout their pregnancy.
The odor from my stoma will be a turn off for my partner.
Keeping your body and your pouch clean and fresh, combined with proper use of deodorizers should keep you free from worry about odor.
Body movements during sex will hurt my stoma.
Be assured and reassure your partner that close body contact and sexual movement will not injure the stoma.
Clothing?
People typically wear the same clothing they did before their surgery when they have an ostomy. Women can still wear pantyhose and girdles. A patterned swimsuit might be better than a solid one.
Work and Travel?
An ostomy should not limit anyone from work or travel after the normal surgery recovery time. It is always important to have extra equipment available away from home.
Activity, Exercise, Sports, and Seat Belts?
Your doctor will say when it is appropriate to return to your normal activities. Extremely rough sports should be avoided, but ostomates can be physically active. People can swim, play golf, softball and other sports. Moisture might decrease your wear time on your pouch a little. Ostomates should try to wear their seatbelts either below or above their stomas.
Physical Changes Caused by Ostomy Surgery.
Due to the surgical area commonly being in the pelvis, men might have difficulty getting or keeping an erection after surgery. The extent of surgical involvement often will determine if men will have trouble or not.
It is important to discuss your feelings with your intimate partner. Fears alone can inhibit sex. Talk to your partner about any physical limitations, pain, fears, your mutual expectations, sexual activities you like or do not like and any other emotions that interfere with the desire to share sex.
Some medications can cause reduced sexual desire, difficulty ejaculating, difficulty getting/keeping an erection, and decreased strength of orgasms. They are some blood pressure meds, antidepressants, pain medicines, alcohol, tranquilizers, antihistamines and sleeping pills.
Helpful Hints.
- Always practice Safe Sex
- Empty pouch prior to sex
- Avoid gassy foods prior to sex
- Use deodorizers
- Cover your pouch with a pouch cover
- Side-lying position usually is better because the pouch isn't between you and your partner
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