Posted 9/11/2009 1:31 AM (GMT 0)
It takes some getting used to. I have illeostomy. The viscosity of the stool is that of water. It is like pea soup, unless there is something in my diet which contains fiber, (metamucil or natural fiber such as from a raisin), it doesnt get to a formed consistency whatsoever. Perhaps a colostomy forum person can answer if the stool characteristics change (become more formed after colostomy surgery and if so, when.
yes the bag can protrude somewhat when its full. I sometimes put it below my underwear, but I am more comfortable with it just under my pants. Mine is in a spot where, wearing a belt sometimes will irritate my stoma, so I generally wear a looser pant with the belt below stoma, more comfortable in loose fitting stuff anyways. An illeostomy is not controllable. So stool generally flows continuous in a very small amount. So you go more but the result is you dont hafta run to the bathroom. You can empty your bag as often as is comfortable for you. I find this as the biggest advantage from surgery.
Granted there are intimacy issues. I use a ace bandage in such instances.