Tips for returning to work after stoma surgery | by Ayesha

My biggest concern about returning to work after stoma surgery was how I was going to adapt to working life with a stoma bag. I made sure to pack an emergency kit in my car, my handbag and my desk at work. I also had spare clothes in my car just in case. This allowed me to ease back into working life comfortably.

Communicating with colleagues

Most of my work colleagues knew I had been off to have emergency stoma surgery and this helped break the ice when I did return. I was open and honest with my colleagues and manager and I feel this helped me settle back into my role. I had a phased return which I was grateful for, the first few weeks back totally floored me and I was glad of the extra time to rest and reset throughout the working week. As I work in healthcare, I was lucky to have the stoma nurses nearby – I had a few minor issues where my bag leaked and my skin was irritated and they were so helpful.

Workwear

Surprisingly enough when returning to work my biggest concern was what I would wear. Pre-surgery, I wore fitted work clothes. I convinced myself my entire wardrobe would need binned and I would only be able to wear baggy, comfortable clothing. I was so wrong. On my first day, back I wore a fitted top and trousers and had no issues at all, I was totally in shock! My stoma didn’t make a difference to my wardrobe at all.

Diet

I was worried about my stoma being noisy and overactive in the office or during meetings. I really haven’t had any issues at all. Of course it has it’s moments but I’m lucky that my work colleagues have understood and we’ve laughed it off. I also make sure to drink plenty of water during the working day to avoid dehydration.

Overall

It’s important to remember there’s no right or wrong way to feel after your procedure. Who you tell and how much you tell them is completely up to you. There can be other things to consider such as travelling to work, attending meetings or being in a role where toilets aren’t always accessible. It may seem overwhelming but there is ways and means around it and your employer will try to make it settling back into work life as comfortable as possible. Just take each day and try not to put too much pressure on yourself.

Ayesha
@ayeshaduffy