When you find out that a stoma is going to be in your life forever many things run through your head. It certainly is a scary feeling knowing your life is about to change. Most people are not a big fan of change especially when it comes to your body. So during the first stages and months of having surgery and getting a stoma lots of fears creep into your life. One of the fears that strike many people the hardest is the idea of intimacy. I have to admit it was one of the areas that worried me the most. The thought of not being able to be intimate again and feel that confidence was a really hard thing for me to get over. But I want to let you know that for the most part that intimacy with your partner is possible and there are lots of tips and guides to get you through the process with a stoma.

The first thing to myself was the look. I was most afraid I would look ridiculous and simply not feel sexy. Luckily I was under the impression that I would be wearing a full-sized bag during the whole process and that was just silly. Hey, we all have fears and they all manifest a little differently. When it comes to fears there certainly are a few more fears than just looks too. I was terrified of smells and simply just feeling gross during the whole ordeal. Well, there are so many products that are meant to do the dead so to speak and I have to admit I was impressed with the ostomy gear available. Yes, it does feel like you are the only one who has struggled with this thought when you first get a stoma. Trust me, you are not alone and this topic has been well taken care of by the manufactures out there.

The first thing to know is that there are lots of mini bags and even stoma caps that are out there for this type of thing. It is similar to heading to the beach in a way and looking good is not really an issue. There are many manufactures and they are all willing to help you find the right product that fits you and your lifestyle well. I do first suggest talking it all over with your healthcare provider and making sure you are ready for this kind of activity. It may be painful or simply complicated after surgery because you are still healing. Also, all the medication that may be going on can have effects on you in so many different ways. So don't put the pressure on yourself too much to start with.

Now the other area we touched upon was the smell. That was something I was really worried about and there are lots of great tips and articles on this. Lots of gear is anti-microbial and rather scent proof. There are also drops you can use in your mini bag to make sure odor is eliminated. But if you are just starting out, light a candle for your own psychological mindset. That was one area I was a bit worried about and just simply having a lit candle helped. So don't get too worked up and fearful. There is no issue with intimacy and having a stoma. Just plan ahead and get the right gear that works best for you.