Managing my menopause output

The journey to get my output under control has always been an arduous journey.

My stoma was formed quite high up my digestive tract so I’ve never had what would be classed as “ Normal “, I’ve been on and off loperamide, bulking sachets & codeine to try and control the amount my stoma purges and managing the near water output since 2016.

Managing my new output

Since starting the Zoladex in December of 2023 my output has been horrendous, with it being rather watery It breaks down my baseplate and barrier ring more quickly and I’ve had to adapt and change more frequently as between the breakdown and the amount of output, it has impacted my filters on the bag and causing filter leaks.

I’ve also had to go back to fluid restrictions to try and manage without having to be admitted to hospital due to dehydration.

Changes made

I’ve had to adapt my diet and fluid intake to try and manage things.

I’ve also had to change my medication schedule to try and help my output and the amount it purges.

Switched back to pelicans contour range with vitamin E as the baseplate is smaller and the bag slightly larger so I don’t have to empty as much
Switched my medication Schedule so instead of every 6 hrs I now take my meds every 4 hrs
Fluid restrictions have been put down to 1.5 litres a day, due to issues with blockages I’ve switched to fizzy water which I add squash to so it stays in a little longer
Changed my eating habits, I’ve introduced crisps & bread again to try and help to bind the output
Started back on all the vitamins due to squiffy blood results

Has this impacted my stoma site?

No, it hasn’t impacted my site , weight loss and the cyst has impacted it. I’m currently managing 3 days between changes and I also make sure to use my barrier spray before applying my barrier ring.

As always

Many thanks for reading

Louise | @crohnsfighting Xx