Meeting someone with an ostomy is not the hardest thing in the world, and neither is it so different from meeting someone without. You both still do the same things; dates, sex, and all the other romantic things enjoyed when meeting.
To clear up doubts and myths about meeting someone with an ostomy, this article would take you through some tips. See here for your colostomy bag covers.
Table of Contents
The 6 Things You Need to Know When meeting Someone with an Ostomy
Let’s get you familiar with this seemingly uncharted territory.
1. THE ACCESSORIES
People have different images in their heads when they think about people with an ostomy. Relax because there are accessories to help keep the pouch from bothering you whenever you wish to
cuddle your partner, hug, kiss, and even go out in public with the person. The accessories include belts, belly bands, and wraps. If you are meeting someone with an ostomy, you need to know about these.
2. YOU MAY HAVE TO BE INVOLVED
This might seem challenging at first, and that is because it is. Being in a relationship with anyone means that you are a part of their lives. You share their routines, their problems, and their joy.
With help and guidance from your partner, you can be there to help out in any way you can to make your partner happier and thus your relationship better.
3. The Sex Is Not Odd
Dating someone with an ostomy might at first glance give the impression that big adjustments have to be made to have sexual intercourse. However, this is not the case. People with an ostomy can have normal sex and engage in conventional sexual positions. Like any relationship, though, you must never force someone into having sex with you, even if you are in a committed relationship. You must keep your temper and ensure that you don’t do anything that could risk you being accused of sexual assault or domestic violence. Your partner may interpret something the wrong way. This could be extremely damaging to your life, and you would have to seek external help to move past this if you are innocent. If you would like more information on the matter, make sure to click the link.
4. DIETING
In some cases, your partner (ostomate) might eat the same things you do, and in some other
cases, they eat differently because of the ostomy. Some are strictly vegan while others could be more tolerant to other foods but in small quantities. If you are meeting someone with ostomy, try to not be so fixated on sharing particular meals.
5. YOU HAVE TO BE UNDERSTANDING
meeting someone with an ostomy does not allow for much selfishness. While some people with ostomy are not so affected and can still keep hobbies like skiing, hiking, etc., it is important not to forget that these things can change at a moment’s notice. This can be due to the way your partner is feeling. You would have to be patient and understanding. Know that your partner
cannot help it even though they love you back.
6. HAVING AN OSTOMY IS NOT LIMITING
You are not going to have a vegetable for a partner. An ostomy doesn’t necessarily restrict the things your partner can do. It would not stop them from having jobs and leading balanced lives. It would stop your partner from assisting you with things and loving you.
Finding out your partner has an ostomy is not so bad. With enough knowledge, it could get quite normal even as long as you understand and accept your partner the way they are.