Thinking ahead
After surgery, it’s entirely possible for most people to go back to work. But when and how you do this really depends on how you feel, the type of work you do, and the stoma operation you had.

Talk to your employer and discuss your options as soon as possible. It may be possible to return to work part-time; this could be particularly helpful when you first go back as you may still feel tired and need time to get used to new routines.

Try it out
A few weeks before you go back, do a few trial runs where you dress and plan your day as if you were going to work. Think about your diet and when and how many times a day you may need to change or empty your pouch. This will help you to establish routines and plan your day accordingly. Most importantly, it will make you feel prepared.

Tips

• Speak to your employer as soon as you can
• If possible, build up your working hours gradually
• Check the available changing facilities at work
• Pack a small changing bag that you can take discreetly to the bathroom
• Do trial runs before you start work, thinking about diet and clothing etc.
• If your company provides healthcare insurance, check whether your condition affects the policy