Patient Education Colorectal Cancer: Your Care and Recovery | Page 50
Showering and Bathing: You can bathe or shower with or without your
pouching system in place. Normal exposure to air or contact with soap
and water will not harm the stoma, and water does not enter the opening.
Choose a time for bathing when the bowel is less active. You can also leave
your pouch on while bathing.
Clothing: You should be able to wear the types of clothing including
swimwear that you wore before surgery. Some minor changes may be
needed, such as larger pantyhose and underwear for women, or a larger
athletic supporter for men who exercise.
Sports and Activities: With a securely attached pouch you can swim, camp
out, play baseball and take part in almost all types of sports. Caution is
advised in heavy-contact sports.
Diet: There may be some changes in your diet depending on the type of
ostomy surgery. You should be able to return to your normal diet after a
period of adjustment. Be sure to:
• Introduce foods back into your diet a little at a time.
• Monitor the effect of each food on the ostomy function.
• Chew your food well.
• Drink plenty of fluids.
Some less-digestible
or high-roughage
foods are more likely
to lead to blockage
problems. These foods
include corn, coconut,
mushrooms, nuts,
and raw fruits and
vegetables.
Travel: The only steps
needed for traveling are
advance planning and
packing enough ostomy
supplies.
49