As an ostomy advocate, I get a lot of surprised looks and questions about being active with an ostomy. Can I really do yoga and go swimming with a stoma and an ostomy bag on my side? I appreciate the question. It is one that I wondered about myself when I frst learned I would need an ileostomy. The answer is, yes, I can. As with many things in life, it takes understanding myself and doing some preparation to live an active life with a stoma.
I have been an ileostomate for nearly 25 years now - my stomaversary is this September! Whoo!!! I’ve learned a lot over the years and wanted to share some tips with you all for being active with an ostomy:
• Follow your medical team’s recommendations:
Be sure to follow your surgeon and ostomy nurse’s recommendations post-op, and check in with them if you have any concerns about physical activity and what might be best for you. They can also provide you with information and guidance to keep your stoma safe and minimize issues and risks.
• Listen to your body:
It’s key to get to know your body again, listen to it, and understand what you feel most comfortable with as far as movement goes.
• Keep hydrated:
Living with an ostomy, we may need to replace fluids and electrolytes. Pay attention to your own needs with hydration, be aware of any hydration symptoms you might experience, and seek medical support as needed.
• Eat well for you:
For ileostomies and colostomies, planning meals and snacks can give us an energy boost and help minimize gas. It can also help to keep our output at the right thickness, to help lessen the likelihood of obstructions and leaks.
• Check your ostomy bag before exercising:
Taking a peek at your ostomy bag to see if it’s sealed well and there are no leaks, and emptying it before working out can make for a better experience. There are also ostomy belts and flange extenders that can add some extra security.
• Start slow:
Take your time with new activities, and ones you haven’t done in a while, and be mindful of how you’re feeling.
• Protect your stoma:
Always shield your stoma from any trauma. There are lots of ostomy belts and guards available these days to make this easier! You can also be aware of any activities that might be more risky and prepare ahead of time, or choose to make some modifications for yourself.
• Take good care of your skin:
When we exercise and sweat or get in the water for a swim, moisture can get trapped under the ostomy wafer. This can lead to some skin irritation and/or a fungal infection. Tips: either plan to change your bag after your post-workout shower, or use a hair dryer on a low/cool setting to dry off your bag!
• Look for inspiration from other ostomates:
If you’re looking for motivation, or inspiration, could use some reminders to battle any internalized ableism (yikes, that can be tough!), get in touch with some ostomy support groups, follow ostomy advocates online, and talk it out.
• Stay true to yourself:
We all have our unique journeys. While something might be just right for one person, it may not be the thing for someone else. Remember to always keep in mind your own personal needs.
• Consider exploring new activities that challenge you and bring you joy:
My ileostomy has empowered me to do many things I did not know I would ever have the chance to do, like training and teaching Martial Arts. This has been one of my greatest life’s passions, and I am grateful for my ostomy for giving me this opportunity.
What have you done, living with an ostomy, that you didn’t know you’d be able to do?
