31 mars 2023
Colorectal cancer requires some patients to wear a stoma. What impact on sex life and how to make room for this device without interfering too much with your privacy? Let’s take stock as the Blue March campaign comes to an end.
For patients with colorectal cancer, wearing an ostomy hinders independence in everyday life. Sexuality is not spared by this surgical opening on the surface of the abdomen to allow the evacuation of stool and urine. This device causes “significant psychological and emotional complications”, relays Sébastien Landry in the book Cancer and sexuality, if we talked regarding it!
First of all, better “carry out psychological work on the acceptance of the pocket as well as on the appropriation of the disease”. So, do not hesitate to turn to a psychologist to talk regarding it. And don’t forget that communication in the couple is a valuable “facilitator” in exchanges, especially when it comes to intimacy.
Equip yourself to feel better
The main thing is to get used to the idea that “the spontaneity of the sexual act” will be less in the early stages following surgery. It is then necessary to find tricks so that the stoma does not block all sensual approaches. First of all, it is advisable to “empty his bag before your intimate moment and secure it so that it does not move during your sexual intercourse”.
To do this, use tape to tape the pocket, or concealing devices such as a belt or open crotch underwear. “These cover the bag while exposing the genitals to allow intercourse. »
There are also bags of different sizes depending on the device you are carrying. To better guide you, don’t hesitate to make an appointment with a stoma therapy nurse, who specializes in stoma management.
A progressive fluency
“Expecting full penetrative sex when you first experience it following your partner’s surgery is probably not realistic,” warns the Canadian Society for Intestinal Research. “Spending time together kissing, touching sensitive spots, or engaging in mutual masturbation or oral sex can bring you feelings of pleasure without having to think regarding the initial discomfort associated with intercourse. »
“Sexual desire usually returns when the person begins to feel better and recover from their cancer experience,” describes the National Cancer Institute (INCa). “It may take a little more planning and a little less spontaneity, but in most cases it is possible to get back to an active sex life. »
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Source : Cancer and sexuality, let’s talk regarding it!, Sébastien Landry, La Ligue contre le Cancer, Editions in press, 135 pages, 17.50 euros – Canadian Society for Intestinal Research
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Written by : Laura Bourgault – Edited by: Emmanuel Ducreuzet
