Dealing with a Hernia Post-Stoma Surgery

Hi all

Just got home from my first cruise since coming to Stoma Land. It went very well, thanks to the advice from ostiomates.

However, I have developed quite a large hernia behind my stoma.

Any advice on how best to deal with it? 😔

Thanks, Chris S

Get a good hernia belt. I just had an appointment with my ostomy nurse to get measured for a hernia belt. Her advice on getting hernias fixed…..if it’s not bothering you as far as intestinal functions or other physical issues, leave it alone. The long term success of hernia repair isn’t good and even after getting one fixed, we are still very prone to getting one. My plan, wait as long as I can and once I slow down physically I may get it fixed. 

If you haven't done so already, see your consultant to get it confirmed that it is a hernia. A hernia support belt can help ease discomfort when the hernia is feeling uncomfortable. Most importantly, you need to start doing core exercises if you are not doing them already.

Good advice... my plan is... if it isn't hurting, leave it alone... it seems the majority of folks say surgery isn't so great and they can return or pop up somewhere else... doesn't sound like a great outcome to me... jb

Thanks for your responses

I have an appointment to get measured for a support belt 11 December.

Whenever I can I get out on my bike and do 25k or so. Lots of hills in Wales and I am wondering if this has contributed to me getting the hernia.

Chris S 

Getting Support in the Ostomy Community with LeeAnne Hayden | Hollister

Maybe, but you can get one simply by coughing/sneezing, so who knows. 

I developed a mild parastomal hernia about 4 months post op.  I wear a Nu-Hope support belt all day, all night. 

This month is my 2 year stomaversary.  My hernia has not gotten worse.  I just got over a cold.  Lots of coughing and sneezing.. hernia unaffected.  

I like Nu-Hope.  Comfortable to wear, even when riding my bike.  I bought a bunch of them.   2, 3, and 4 inch wide belts.  I use the 4 inch when I have a cold.

Have a look at Comfizz - they're a UK supplier of Ostomy support belts. I've been using them since my hernia made its presence felt.  They do a whole range of quality belts, and you can get them on prescription too.