Young People who have had an Ileostomy, or older people who had it when they were young...?

Question

My husband is going in for surgery tomorrow it have temporary Ileostomy, while his inter pouch is healing. We have all the practical info, changing the bag, what not to eat etc. But I have a few questions that are a bit more personal.

How long is the recovery? We were told 6-8 weeks but what does that mean? Total bed rest for 6-8 weeks?

How soon could you eat, walk, shower.

On a scale from 1-10 how painful was it once you got home.
Did you gain back weight lost due to your sickness, if so how long did it take?

How was your sex life? If that is too personal, don't worry about it, but I am worried that his sex drive will drop due to self consciousness ...
and whatever else.

Do you have to ware baggy shirts and looser jeans?

Does it make noises when you "go"

What is the hardest part?

What is the best part?

Anyone have the internal pouch? How is that for you?

Any suggestions for me to help him be more comfortable and feel better about it?

Thanks so much I really appreciate you time and honesty.

Additional Details

As I said before we have spoekn with Doctors and Nurses, they are medical professionals, the key word is professional, they do not come at it from personal experiance. I was hoping to hear from someone how has been through this.

As I said before we have spoken with Doctors and Nurses, they are medical professionals, the key word is professional, they do not come at it from personal experiance. I was hoping to hear from someone how has been through this.

Sorry I guess these are pretty personal questions not everyone would feel comfortable posting here.

Recommended forms? Or emails?

Answer 1

Best Answer - Chosen by Asker

http://www.cancer.org/docroot/CRI/conten…

I have an internal pouch and my life is a lot easier thanks but this is too personal to discuss in this forum.
I, being female and celibate, could not address what sexual concerns a man might have, nor would I

Hope the link helps.

Asker's Rating:

Asker's Comment:

Thanks for the link it was some what helpful, it is just a lot nice to hear from a person. But I understand it is a pretty personal thing, and it is probably different for everyone.

Answer 2

I'm really sorry that your husband has to go through all this. I can't answer any of your questions. I think they are better answered by someone who has gone through it, not a doctor, a nurse maybe. I suggest you find a support group, forum, on the internet for patients with ileostomies. I don't think you will get the type of help you need on Y!A

Answer 3

these are the questions you should ask your doctor or a nurse. except maybe for the 2nd to last one. no i do not have an internal pouch. sorry.