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| Relationships can be difficult at the best of times, so how do you overcome all the usual hurdles when you also come with ‘extra baggage?’ And how do you cope with a young and boisterous family at home who might be too young to understand what’s happening? Well, here you’ll find handy hints and tips on building and maintaining rewarding relationships, and discover ways to help your family understand what being an ostomate means day-to-day. If you have advice of your own, you can share it here too. |
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| Hints & Tips |
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Don't expect to be back to ‘normal’ straight away once you are home. Take things easy. |
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Don’t forget to ask for help from relatives and friends as well. |
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One of the first things to consider talking about with close family — particularly those sharing the same home — is that although the surgery is over, recovery takes time. |
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You will need to spend a lot of time, initially, learning how to change the pouches. Select a time when there will peace and quiet in the bathroom or toilet. |
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Knowing the right time to change the pouches will take a little practice. Ideally, find a time when the stoma is not overactive – such as first thing in the morning before eating or drinking. |
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All children have questions and will more than likely want to ask them. They will want to know the reason for the operation and what has happened. Honest and simple explanations are both important. |
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One time to think seriously about giving a full up-front explanation is if you are single and meeting someone with the idea of marriage or a sexual relationship. |
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Strong and intense emotions should not be bottled up. Get them out into the open, talk about them, discuss them with family or friends. You may want to seek advice from a support group or a professional. |
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Some couples find it a good idea if they both learn to change the pouch in case there’s an emergency. However, you need to be self-reliant if at all possible. |
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| Submit your own hints and tips for Personal Relationships. |