Embracing Body Positivity with a Stoma Bag: Your Guide to Confidence and Comfort

Summer is here, which comes with it the joy of holidays, bikinis, and summer dresses. However, for those of us with a stoma bag, it can be challenging to find the body confidence because of the beauty norms of today. It’s important to remember that everybody is unique and deserves to feel confident in their skin – stoma bag or not. It’s also essential to remember that every body is beautiful, and with the right mindset and a few practical tips, you can fully embrace body positivity and enjoy summer to the fullest.

Embrace Your Journey

Accepting your body after stoma surgery can be a daunting task, considering the scars and changes it brings. You must remember that your body has been through a lot, and every scar tells a story of strength and resilience. Self-acceptance is the first step towards body positivity.

Love Your New Body

After stoma surgery, it’s natural to experience mixed emotions about your new body. You need to give yourself time to adjust to these changes. Remember that your scars are reminders of all the things you’ve been through and managed to overcome. With time, self-love, and self-care, we can learn to appreciate the beauty of our new body’s.

Wear What You Feel Comfortable In

The key to feeling confident and beautiful in your skin is to wear what makes you feel comfortable. For summer holidays, I always pack a variety of swimwear options, such as high and low-waisted bikinis and swimsuits. Experiment with different styles until you find the ones that you feel most comfortable in and what the ones that make you feel amazing!

Challenge Societal Norms

One reason body confidence can be challenging with a stoma bag is the lack of awareness and understanding in society. This is one of the main reasons I started my Instagram in the first place (@summers_stoma). I try to be as open and unapologetic as I can about having a stoma bag to help break those barriers and be more inclusive. I know it’s not for everyone but in any way you can, share your story – even if it’s just to a friend – so we can empower ourselves and others to embrace our unique bodies without fear or shame.

Empower Yourself with Comfortable and Discreet Bags

Finding the right stoma bag is essential for feeling confident and comfortable during summer activities. Opt for high-quality bags made from materials that ensure discretion. For example, Pelican’s ModaVi bags are my go-to bags. They are comfortable and come in neutral and back and are very discreet. I have tried and tested them many times abroad and they help me feel more at ease while enjoying time by the pool or at the beach.

Seek Support

Connecting with fellow ostomates can be incredibly empowering. Discussing tips and experiences with others who understand your journey can provide a sense of community and support. It can feel like you are the only person in the word feeling like this but trust me we have all been there. It’s so important to speak with other people who have been through the same thing so you can relate to shared experiences.

Conclusion

This summer, let go of any inhibitions and embrace the beauty of your unique body, stoma bag and all. Remember that body positivity starts with self-acceptance and extends to breaking down barriers and sharing your story. By choosing comfortable and discreet bags, mixing and matching swimwear, and seeking support, you can confidently enjoy all the joys of the season. Embrace your journey, love your new body, and know that every body is a beautiful bikini body!

Summer | @summers_stoma