The Christmas season is nearly upon us, bringing with it holiday parties, family gatherings, and festive outings! If you’re an ostomate, you may feel a bit of extra pressure around managing your stoma while celebrating with friends and family, but with a bit of planning, you can enjoy the season to the fullest without worry. Here are some practical tips to help you feel confident and comfortable while socialising with a stoma this Christmas.
Plan Ahead for Parties and Gatherings
Pack a Discreet Ostomy Kit: Create a small kit to take with you, with essentials like an extra pouch, barrier wipes, hand sanitiser, and odour-neutralising drops or spray. Keeping this kit handy will give you peace of mind in case you need to make a quick bathroom stop.
Scope Out the Facilities: If you’re attending an event in an unfamiliar place, take a moment to locate the toilets when you arrive. Knowing where it is can help you feel more at ease if you need to step away during the event.
Enjoy Holiday Foods Mindfully
Stick with Ostomy-Friendly Foods: The holidays come with tempting treats, but choosing foods that you know work well with your stoma will help you stay comfortable. Try to focus on foods that are gentle on your digestive system and avoid those that might cause excess gas or blockages.
Watch Out for Carbonated Drinks and Alcohol: Sparkling wines, fizzy pop, and beer may add extra gas to your bag, so sip with caution if you choose these drinks. If alcohol is on the menu, choose a drink you know won’t disrupt your comfort.
Choose Confidence-Boosting Outfits
Dress with Comfort and Style in Mind: Christmas gatherings are a wonderful time to dress up, so choose outfits that make you feel great while giving you confidence with your ostomy. Finding confidence-boosting clothing as an ostomate is all about exploring styles that let you feel comfortable, confident, and true to your personal style. Don’t be afraid to try different cuts, colours, and textures – fashion is meant to be fun, and you deserve to enjoy it as much as anyone!
Navigating Conversations
Prepare for Questions: Family and friends may notice your ostomy and out of curiosity or concern, ask questions. Having a few prepared responses can make conversations feel easier.
Share Only What You’re Comfortable With: If you feel open to it, you can use these gatherings as an opportunity to help loved ones understand your journey. It’s completely up to you how much or how little you share, and don’t hesitate to change the topic if you’d rather focus on the festivities!
Take Care of Yourself
Know When to Take a Break: Christmas gatherings can be long, and it’s easy to feel worn out. If you need to step away for some alone time or a quick reset, give yourself permission to do so.
Focus on the Joy of Being Present: Christmas is a time of connection, laughter, and celebration. While it’s easy to feel self-conscious about your stoma, remember that most people are focused on enjoying the moment, not on noticing your bag!
Find Support and Encouragement
Connect with Other Ostomates: If you’re feeling anxious about socialising this season, consider talking to other ostomates for support and advice. Many online groups on social media share helpful tips for holiday gatherings, and it can be reassuring to hear how others handle similar situations.
Bring Along a Trusted Friend: If you’re attending a larger event or party, having a supportive friend or family member by your side can make a big difference. They can provide encouragement, help you navigate any challenges, and keep things light-hearted.
Socialising with a stoma during the Christmas season may feel challenging at first, but with a bit of preparation, you can enjoy the holiday spirit without worry. Focus on the fun, connect with those you care about, and remember that you deserve to celebrate just as much as anyone else. Here’s to a confident, joyful Christmas season!
