An Ileostomy is where part of your small bowel is brought through a muscle in your abdomen to form a opening(Stoma). A bag is put over the Stoma to catch your faeces. .
The bag has a sticky back which forms a seal between the bag and your skin. A hole the size of the stoma is cut in the back of the bag, that fits over the stoma. You will not be able to hold on or stop wind going into the bag but many bags have filters to allow the wind to pass without any smell
The stoma itself should protude from the abdoment be a sort of pinky red and be moist
Despite looking red the stoma has no sensation and it is not painful.
The Stoma will reduce in size by about two thirds in the first 6 to 8 weeks.
You will learn how to prepare and fix the bag. At first it will be strange and you may wonder if you can do it. Well the truth is you have to, so it is best to cast those thoughts out and put yourself in business type mode and do it. It will become second nature as you learn more.
What type of bag is suitable for you. There are one and two piece bags, concave bags, different makes have different glues
How to care for the stoma and your skin under the bag. Wash with warm water use a special powder if your skin is sore. It works wonders.
At first all of the above will be a slow process but as time goes by it will become as natural as tying you shoelaces.
The Bag is waterproof so you can wear it in the shower or whilst having a bath. Swimming is a bit further along the road but with careful management perfectly possible.
Before your operation you will meet with your specialist nurse who will help you with anything at all related to the stoma and its care.
It is very important that you work together to ensure the best quality of life. Do not suffer in silence, tell your nurse. They can tell you about different types of bag as you recover from the operation your needs may change. The nurse will talk to you about other options different products and help you through any difficulties you may experience.