An Ostomate Looks at Sports:  Practical Advice for All 

      Sporting activities are some of the most exciting things for any ostomate to participate in. Good muscle tone and increased strength are important for anyone who has suffered a prolonged illness, but for ostomates, there is the added pleasure of doing something which, because it is a challenge, adds to our emotional strength. When I was ill, I had no desire to do any kind of vigorous physical activity. After my operation, while I felt better, I was still worried about taking part in any activities, especially athletic ones. I was afraid that my pouch would fall off, that I would strain my abdomen and that I would feel inhibited from really throwing myself into a sport. But, by starting to do various exercises, and by taking a certain number of precautions, I not only have enjoyed vigorous activity, but have also found myself doing many sports I had never done even before my illness. This successful activity has, in turn, increased my courage and made it easier for me to accept my ileostomy. It has certainly brightened my outlook many times over. Swimming is one of the best sports an ileostomate should try. It is a gentle form of exercise which uses all your muscles and should get your body into good enough shape to start any other sport. I would suggest to ostomates to wear waterproof tape around the edges of the pouch. (I have worn a temporary pouch to the beach and found this perfectly satisfactory). I also suggest wearing some sort of reinforcer (A stretch panty, the panty part of pantyhose, or a gentle support belt) under your bathing suit. This will keep your pouch from moving around, loosening, or causing discomfort.

(by Barbara Hurewitz)