The word “ostomy” means opening. Ostomies are bags that are worn outside of the body to collect the waste products a body produces. People who suffer from inflammatory bowel diseases, such as Ulcerative Colitis and Crohn's Disease, or from disorders and diseases of the bladder are sometimes required to wear ostomies. There are three common types of ostomies that are either temporary or permanent.
Colostomy
In a colostomy a section of the large intestine is brought to the surface through the abdominal wall. A bag is worn over this opening to collect fecal matter.
Ileostomy
An ileostomy involves the small intestine. Again, a small section of the bowel is brought through the abdominal wall and a bag is worn over this to collect waste products.
Urostomy
A urostomy involves an opening in the urinary system to divert urine away from a bladder that is diseased into a bag that is attached to the opening.
Many people are under the false impression that having an ostomy will limit or prevent them from participating in extra curricular activities. This is especially true for children that have to wear ostomies. Having an ostomy does not stop a person from doing the things they enjoy doing or from involving themselves in whatever activities they choose to participate in. Children with ostomies can still take baths, go swimming, and play in any school sports they wish to.
Adjusting to an ostomy will be difficult for a child at first. It is important that you do whatever you can to make your child feel as normal as any other child. Unfortunately, children who have to deal with such diseases and endure having to wear an ostomy, will feel anger, fear, and resentment. It is crucial to remember that children are very impressionable and how you accept and deal with their condition will influence their own behaviors toward their illness.
Many children will feel embarrassed and shy about having to wear an ostomy. If your child is not comfortable talking about their ostomy be careful to respect their privacy. Having inflammatory bowel disease can be humiliating for some people as it is something that society is uncomfortable dealing with. It is beneficial to speak with your child's teachers and counselors at school not only to make them aware of the situation, but also so that they can be helpful in making your child feel comfortable around their peers.
Some issues that you may want to bring up with teachers include bathroom facilities and physical education classes. Children that have new ostomies will more than likely feel uncomfortable sharing a bathroom with or undressing in front of others. Initially, having to empty or change a bag is going to be overwhelming. Asking for a private place for your child to deal with this new issue will greatly reduce their stress. Accidents do happen, so always make sure that your child goes to school prepared with all of the supplies necessary to change an entire appliance.
