Bringing home a newborn is one of the most exciting yet overwhelming experiences, but adding stoma care into the mix made it even more challenging for me. In those early days, I struggled to balance the demands of caring for a baby while also managing my stoma. Finding time to change the bag was tough when I was already stretched thin with feedings, nappy changes, and sleepless nights. I often felt like I was falling behind on using all the necessary products to keep my stoma healthy, which only added to my stress.
Diet played a significant role too. To avoid blockages, I had to be extra cautious with what I ate. I found myself planning meals around foods that would be easier on my system, all while trying to maintain enough energy for the constant demands of a newborn and breast feeding.
On top of that, I had to be mindful of lifting. With a newborn, it’s hard to avoid carrying and picking them up frequently, but I knew overdoing it could increase the risk of developing a hernia. This meant learning safe lifting techniques and knowing when to ask for help—a difficult adjustment for someone who’s used to being so independent.
Despite the challenges, things have gradually gotten easier. Over time, I’ve developed a routine that works for me, and I’ve become more confident in balancing stoma care with parenting. I’ve learned to streamline my stoma maintenance, making it less time-consuming and stressful. The anxiety I felt in the beginning has eased as I’ve become more familiar with what works for me and my body.
If you’re going through this right now, know that it does get better. The early days are the hardest, but you’ll find your rhythm. Caring for a newborn while managing a stoma is no small feat, but with patience and time, you’ll get the hang of it.
Thanks for reading,
Ange (@thebaglife_) x
