There are a lot of things that end up being a bit different when you learn that an ostomy is happening. One of them and a big part of the change is simply the phsyical look. You are going to look different and you are also going to have to change how you deal with clothing and all the things of that sort. When you find out you're going to be getting an ostomy your whole world changes. Information is thrown at you at a lightning pace. More information than most people want to hear is what comes at them all in a rush. Now many people are happy to have this happen because it truly makes their life better and less painfull. The life-changing information and the education is simply a lot for the average person and in the end, most of us all go to the same spot. What on earth am I going to wear when this is all said and done. Don't be ashamed or talk down on yourself for thinking this for a single moment. You are human, and so am I and let's face it we all thought of this early on instead of the actual health issue that was happening. It's a natural response and when it comes to shopping it is important to look good especially if you have a stoma!
Looking good is not all vanity and about being vane. There really is so much more to it than that. So there are a few things to keep in mind for your stoma health and one of the biggest things is to make sure you look and feel good. Your psychological health is just as important as your physical health. So yes, listen to your ostomy nurse and surgeon. They will most likely give you incredible and very noteworthy information that you need to know to get through your day to day life. But also make sure you are paying attention to not change your life so that you look and feel like a medical case. That is the last thing you want and I am pretty sure that some of us end up feeling that way. Just keep learning as much as you can to overcome any issues. The jokes about being half man half machine seem to start rolling in and that is all good and fun, but seriously make sure you are taking care of yourself.
Now another thing to really be thinking about is style and fining one that works for you. Social media influencers can actually help in this area. Especially, if they have a stoma as well. Looking great is just as big a deal in stoma health as having the right seals and bags for your specific type of stoma. So I suggest checking out lots of online tutorials about fashion.
There are tons of them out there for people who have stomas and it is really important to find a few good ones that seem to fit your lifestyle. Make sure you are getting the right activewear and gear for your lifestyle and that it fits the way you like to dress on a regular basis. Some things will have to change a bit, but not everything and certainly not an entire style. Search well and look like you want to feel.
