First trimester of pregnancy with an ostomy
The first trimester of pregnancy is often a time of concern, whether we’re an ostomate or not. The most terrible part of it is the waiting though. From the moment we learn we’re pregnant, we get excited and start wondering: Is everything going well? Should I worry about these symptoms? Should I de more research? Will I have to change my ostomy equipment along the way? How am I going to keep those folks who love to put their hands on a pregnant belly from touching my ostomy pouch? How will I make the big announcement to my family? Should I choose natural childbirth or an elective caesarean delivery? How will my pregnancy affect my love relationship, my work, my daily tasks, my body, ...? My body, the one my ileostomy gave me back and which I’m now giving up to motherhood.
My first trimester mostly turned out as an acceptance process. Despite all the positive effects of my surgery, I realised it also left me with a few hidden traumas. As irrational as it may seem, I was suddenly petrified that pushing during delivery might open my scars, create a hernia, or worse, make my intestines come out of my body (Yes, those kinds of irrational thoughts!). Of course, I was also afraid the adhesions that appeared after my surgery would put me at greater risk of pregnancy loss.
Then, the interminable waiting before the first follow-up appointment, ultrasound, baby kick and blood tests results. As the weeks went by, calm settled in and I made peace with my fears. Still, my first three months were filled with persistent nausea and occasional vomiting. Even if my symptoms were very unpleasant, they became a reassuring sign that pregnancy was taking hold well. Concerning my ostomy, it didn’t cause me any problems.
Accepting to have trust in life and learning how to let go were the essential elements of my process. It’s perfectly normal to worry, even if it doesn't make sense sometimes. Luckily, my friends and family helped me a lot in lessening my concerns.
Brought to you by : Hollister
