Colostomy

[DIYdiva]

I was diagnosed with Ovarian ca IVa involving the omentum and liver tumors in September 2023. Since then, have undergone 6 cycles of chemo (avastin, Carboplatin, taxol). Now, am anticipating for surgery on Feb 27 ( in 3 weeks). My surgery told me there’s a 50/50 chance I will need colostomy ( tumor pressing on my rectum). Am having a very difficult time processing and accepting the idea of colostomy for life.

Would you kindly share your experiences with me? What is life like with a colostomy bag? What is the quality of life?

[Tvam]

I've no personal experience of a stoma but was told before my surgery that it was a possibility, thankfully it wasn't necessary. That said I've met many people with stomas, they manage perfectly well, of course it's a lot to take in and get used to , at this stage it's only a possibility so my advice is to wait and see, after all you might not necessarily have to deal with it. Best of luck going forward

[AdjustU]

Hello!

I have had a colostomy for a year now and have no problems at all! I went in to the surgery knowing I would have one coming out snd I had accepted this before going in. It is easy to take care of and easy to change my bag. I can still wear a bikini, go swimming, downhill skiing, and live my life as normal! I will never be ashamed of something that saved my life! I wish you the best possible outcome with your surgery. 🙏🏽

P.S. The first 4-6 weeks after surgery is the most challenge as the stoma is still healing and changing shape. But after that… smooth sailing! 😀

[lovemy3dogs]

I was diagnosed with ovarian cancer in 2019 and had a complete hysterectomy, along with a colostomy. I was told it was a possibility before my surgery but was hoping for the best. The first thing I asked after coming out of anesthesia was if I had a colostomy. I learned to deal with it and over time it became routine. At first I wouldn't even shower without a bag. I will say when I wore a bathing suit it was a tankini with a loose top. Other than that, I was able to got about my regular routine, working out, traveling, etc. Fortunately, after going through several tests, the doctors felt I had enough colon to reconnect so after a year I had the surgery. Try different products and find the one that works best for you. Your care team should put you in touch with several companies who are more than willing to send you samples. BTW, try not to use the ones that open on the bottom to empty out.

[AdjustU in reply to lovemy3dogs]

I 100% agree…,the bags that you have to empty out the bottom are the shits! 🙁 (Ha ha… pun intended!). I use the single use bags which are more expensive but way way better!!!

[lovemy3dogs in reply to AdjustU]

I was lucky my insurance paid for all of it. I had so many left over I wanted to donate but no one would take them. At first it was because of covid as the doctors without borders would take them but weren't traveling. Even after I couldn't find anyone. Finally had to just throw them away which broke my heart.

Good luck to you.