Pelvic Floor Dilators After Colon & Rectum Removal | Let's Talk IBD

[@LetsTalkIBD]

Hey guys! If you are interested in purchasing anything from Intimate Rose, they reached out a sent a coupon code for my viewers! Use "LETSTALKIBD" for $5 off your order! www.intimaterose.com/?ref=LETSTALKIBD Thanks so much Intimate Rose!!

[@deborahsimpson2732]

Maggie, do you know that I cry when I see your courage as you talk about things "that need to be talked about". I cry out of admiration and joy that you are what would be described as a soldier; one who battles even though the battle is really hard. You and Zak, I know, have it rough each and every day and in such a unique way but y'all are such examples of LIVING and not giving up. God Bless y'all. Thank you for sharing so courageously because, Crohn's or not, we all need the encouragement you both provide.

[@hopelessly.hopeful]

Not gross! You're doing the hard work, normalizing and destigmatizing our bodies and all the things that come with them. You're incredible. (I don't have Crohn's or an ostomy, I just love your channel.)

[@marciedavis0917]

I was 15 when I got Crohn’s. I had 3 surgeries thus far. I am now 59. Worked all my life. Applying for disability soon. Pray for me. Dreading the stress of being unemployed and needing to see doctors for Social Security. I’ve also gotten so much more depressed because I can’t do things I like anymore. Your so brave! I wish I had had you around when I started this life. Invisible disabilities are so different than what our eyes can see.

[@juliehayden123]

I’m 30 on disability we will make it and have a worthwhile life I pray. I think technology and treatment will get better.

[@marciedavis0917]

@@juliehayden123 it’s getting approved that I’m so worried about. Getting SS Disability, it seems you are denied benefits for years. How does one support themselves during this time? I’m so scared!

[@juliehayden123]

@@marciedavis0917 I was a state worker so I’m getting money from the teacher retirement system since I never paid into SS. You will get retroactive money when you are approved I know that. I would join a facebook group for SS in your state.

[@ChaiLatte13]

@@marciedavis0917 Hey Marcie you may want to check out Walter's channel, SSA Disability Benefit Videos He has tons of videos on how to prepare, most common questions etc. He also does a live show where you can call in with questions. His videos are soo super helpful especially if you get to the trial portion.

[@jamespayette7574]

Hey Maggie…..I have been following you since probably the beginning. I don’t have Crohn’s, but a good friends daughter was recently diagnosed. I let my friend know about your channel and it has been very helpful. Quite a lot of videos to watch You are completely selfless in this video and I applaud you and Zac for putting yourselves out there. A lot of respect to you. And, Hi pups!

[@linanicolia1363]

These surgeries affect men differently than women. I remember scrubbing , in abdomino/perineal ( A+P ) resections, years ago as it was a two stages, surgery. First we took the colon from above ( the abdomen) and then, we went in lithotomy position, to remove the rectum , in the second part of the procedure.. There was a circle drawn around the rectum and it was all cut out. I recall feeling it was so radical; that I wonder how these patients recovered; having an ileostomy and no bottom, at all. I think most , if not all the men were going to be impotent, after that extreme resection, in the perineal. It has gotten better now, as many new types of staples can be introduced into a small space, that do a good job, putting tissues back together, where is would be impossible to reach. We are making progress, but still, not a walk in the park, for the patients. If we could fix that problem without surgical procedures, would be a huge improvement. Hard to believe pharma has not come up with anything. I guess not enough people have the issue, as it is how they determine what studies they would do. The more the problem is reported, the more it attracts studies. These patients need a lot of support, physical and emotional . Respect for Maggie to share with "the world".....

[@crystalsocia1123]

Me also, been watching awhile.. her husband, bff, biggest supporter… very beautiful couple In every way!! Glad she has him & he has her.. I just love people like these two!!!

[@crystalsocia1123]

@@linanicolia1363 just amazing she is, like I said I have nothing like this no knowledge whatsoever, but she’s cute, sweet, amazing & brave (& more) for sharing w the world.. I learn things from watching her & reading things like your post.. thank you for what you have don’t for us humans in your time, & her 100% thank your for talking about it to make other feel a lil better, understand a lil better on her experience.. I loving learning new things & she has been a good one for me..

[@piinkluvrr]

I want to thank you so much for sharing. I have a quite similar story with an ongoing battle with Crohn's since I was a young girl. I feel less alone and recently had a total colectomy and would not have been able to do it without having heard your experiences. Your are amazing 🥰

[@brandonshaw7619]

I had total colostomy on Dec 3rd last year due to cancer. I had ulcerative colitis It's been a journey

[@queenofstitcheswarrior2668]

@@brandonshaw7619 that sounds very hard. I hope you are ok? Big hug and lots of ❣️🍀

[@brandonshaw7619]

@@queenofstitcheswarrior2668 💙

[@celestek.2395]

You my dear, are an absolute angel. I can’t even imagine how many people are being helped because of your openness. You are helping to take away the awkwardness of talking about these things. I’m sure there are sooo many people that feel totally alone in their world, and you are easing that for them. Thank you. 💗

[@judyatpalmetto]

Maggie you are just what the doctor ordered for me. Diagnosed with anal cancer in January this year through emergency intervention. I had a very large tumor. After 9 days with no BM, my primary and urgent care said I was constipated and recommended miralax. I took myself to er during height of Covid and demanded to be examined. At that point I could not sit and felt like I was sitting on a broomstick. Finally seeing the ER doctor on my second day in the waiting room, I was diagnosed anal cancer. The following day I had a colostomy. They could not get the camera up the anus to see tumor so they could not surgically remove the tumor so had to do radiation and chemo due to the area being totally blocked off. I am grateful to be alive today and doing well and now am considering hooking back up. I don’t know and the doctors don’t know yet if I will be able to be “normal “again so I started using the dilators to help stretch and strengthen the muscles. mine are the hard plastic, but I don’t mind it although no matter what you use it will be painful I use them anally to stretch the muscle because the doctor said if I don’t I will not be able to have a normal bowel movement and not be able to return to normal. I will investigate these dilators though.Thank you so much for this information as it confirms I am indeed going in the right direction. However it turns out I will have tried my best and done my part and I will let my body decide the rest. Thank you for all your videos. They helped me so much this year. It is a struggle at times but I I look around at my fellow sufferers and know it could be so much worse. Thank you for caring enough to do this for us. Forever grateful🙏🏻

[@marybethcole1768]

Wow never realy thought about complications. To bad obgyn don't get involved with surgery to help prior to surgery. Thanks for sharing im a nurse and this was info needed to hear to advocate and support my patients

[@lisalove511]

Had similar problems after my vaginal/colorectal surgery for removal of cancer for the 5th time. I didn’t do much work with them because to be honest they removed half of my vagina and I thought why bother? I’m not sure if I wasn’t relaxed enough or what but I didn’t have much luck. But kudos to you and thank you so much for your continued education for this entire community! Much appreciated

[@treefrog1018]

I have been follow Maggie's saga of Pelvic floor therapy and I can say...she is right. It is amazing. I have endometeriosis and started pelvic floor therapy in the last month and just decided to trust that this will be a good experience. After 3 pelvic floor appointments, so far, so good. The first day (intake) left me in pain for the evening. I was very sore after my therapist pushed on the sore muscles in my vagina to get an idea how much help I needed. But now we have an idea how much internal work is good so I am not left so sore after therapy (and we don't do internal work every time). Yes. Pelvic floor therapy is good. I am noticing improvements just within a few weeks. Tbh, I do kind of hate it but I do kinda love it. It's like brushing my teeth. I hate the process but I like slick, clean teeth so...we do what we must.

[@leodiano5525]

Thank you for being positive even throughout the hard times. It gives the people that is having the same condition hope.

[@eileenshea9564]

Thank you for your calm intelligent explanation on the benefit of taking proactive care of our female parts. I'm sure there will be women helped tremendously from your insightful straight forward talk.

[@leabugmp]

Thanks for being so candid. I am going through the same issues after my proctectomy and just started using dilators per my gynecologist, after my colorectal surgeon brushed it off as normal. Recurrent BV and looking like I wet my pants all the time (when my heavy duty pads fail me) is not normal!! I sometimes regret my surgery because of all this. I also start pelvic floor physiotherapy tomorrow so hoping we can improve the situation.

[@thirstyboots6711]

I have benefited from pelvic floor therapy. The internal pressure therapy was a life changer. Thank you for your honesty.

[@doglovekane9784]

I have had 5 different surgeries and still have diarrhea and can affect you at any time. Thank you for sharing. It is so hard to talk to people even close ones about IBS-D. I've had 5 surgeries and you're an inspiration. I'm miserable when it happens.

[@beckhamwestwick]

I’m so sorry to hear that. I am dealing with so many bowel issues and I have had IBS-C issues for over a decade now. I really pray you find relief. 💜

[@rogerbreault319]

Hello Mary Kugley, After my first surgery when I was 18 I had diarrhea every day for forty years. Dr. tried putting me on Colestipol hydrochloride 1g tablet. I take 2 in the morning and 2 at night. It is supposed to be for lowering bad cholesterol but its side effect is constipation. Has stopped the diarrhea and I only go once or twice a day now ( solid) instead of 10 plus times a day. Maybe it’s something you can talk to your Dr about. Just my experience hoping things get better for you! Have a great day!

[@rebeccaclavette2329]

As someone that has been very extensive(almost a year)of therapy. We’ve explained it very well. The therapy helps a ton, worth the time and energy. ❤️❤️

[@CattyT1]

Thank you Maggie. No one else talks about this! You learn after surgery that a lot of stuff happens you weren’t quite prepare for…

[@MultiCrackerjacker]

You know what? Thank you for your candid honesty. ❤️🇨🇦

[@sari-kitty]

So good to see you Maggie! You look great! So glad that you're feeling better. 💜

[@pennybutcher4074]

I am 16 weeks post pan proctectomy surgery . I am going through the same fluid collection. It’s driving me insane . Thank you for sharing

[@measia92]

I have to say, these looks you’ve been giving are GIVING!

[@pattiecollins402]

Maggie I have to say a Huge Thank You ! For bringing this topic out of the dark! Why my surgeon never told me I would have these issues after my surgery is just plain cruel ! It was traumatizing and I was forced to be my own advocate in trying to figure out WTH was now wrong with me … My 27 yr marriage did not survive ( his loss ) …. What has survived is my drive to be as whole and functional as possible with what is remaining . I was lucky to find an amazing female Eurogyny who actually called my surgeon to verify certain aspects of his surgical process … confirming the ridge you’ve mentioned for fluid build up .. UGH ! You know what I’m referring to . After all we go thru -- I forced any embarrassed feelings aside and went thru the therapy and dilators . I agree with you that SO many women would benefit from this , even if you haven’t had surgery in the areas we have . While I’m still trying to put my life back on track … at least my self esteem and pelvic area is very happy these days !

[@carries7637]

It absolutely has everything to do with it I had a Complete hysterectomy and everything dropped moved to new places etc!!!!

[@maryallabaugh598]

Hi Maggie ! Thanks for sharing your drawers with us. Because of that I saw you had Adapt barrier rings. I didn't know Hollister made them I use their pouches but Eakin seals. Hollister is sending me samples. Thank you so much!

[@LetsTalkIBD]

No problem! I love their rings because they offer a slim version too which I find puts a little less pressure right around my stoma! Hope you like them!

[@pjk1714]

Pelvic floor health is a must. When it drops, you can also have more bladder infection or can't empty. Even having a large baby can wreck your floor. My mother had everything tacked to her stomach. I appreciate you sharing. After surgery they don't always provide guidance years later. You are also right about slacking off. It's a muscle thing and position. You don't work them, it all starts going back.

[@kaydee6417]

I’ve been a fan of yours for a few years now, and I love that you use your hands when you talk. I know it’s weird to say but for me I have ADHD and get bored quickly by videos of people just sitting and talking. But you animate your stories and I appreciate that. And you are so sweet and professional when talking about sensitive or “gross” subjects. ❤️

[@LetsTalkIBD]

Thank you for saying that! I sometimes worry I'm too animated but it helps me express what I'm saying a bit more. I'm glad it works!

[@kn7807]

Thank you so much, Maggie. I just recently had emergency surgery...two weeks ago, to be exact. This was my third surgery and fourth hospitalization for parastomal hernia obstruction in the last two years...and trust me, the pain is unreal. Believe it or not, this last surgery was the first time I had physical therapy afterwards and my therapist mentioned pelvic floor therapy. The difference in this surgery and the previous two...I had a general surgeon perform this surgery and not my colorectal surgeon. Needless to say, I am quite disappointed that my own surgeon didn't recommend any therapy after my total colectomy two years ago, or all other surgeries may have been avoidable, who knows. Anyway, thank you so much for being an inspiration. You have encouraged me to seek further consultation on therapy options for me. I am awaiting a surgery date for the hernia repair and completion of the protectomy...yep, dual surgeries; I so want to be done with all this. Lucky for me, I have one of the best hernia repair surgeons in the world. Again, thanks so much for everything. I love all your informational videos as well as hearing about you and Zak's life and adventures. Love you and God bless you both. Keep the videos coming.

[@jerometsowinghuen]

Good morning, Miss Maggie. It sounds that the treatment helps your pelvic floor properly, and the equipments are also useful for your health, too.

[@juliehayden123]

Totally relate about all the anal probing. I had to really push to get anal Botox for fissures. Before the procedure they forced me to do this awful “anorectal manometry” where they force you to squeeze to get a pressure reading and then pass an inflated balloon (which I couldn’t do) through my anus. The doctors were like “why can’t you do this it’s an average stool size. Glad you found a solution that works for you. I feel the doctors always want to torture us to an extent when honestly we really know we need a surgical option. I have chrons and still have my colon but have terrible arthritis so idk what will happen. Maybe someday I’ll have a bag because life happens who knows. It’s comforting to see someone going through these things in case I might have to. I had the too tight pelvic floor in my case as well they told me use a Therawand which was like hard plastic, silicone would have been better! Love your content! So much agree they are medical or “sexual” devices, however, if they make them only intimate devices, we cannot use our flexible medical spending account towards it as well, making it a financial issue too.

[@dawnmccarthy8679]

I began watching you when I had an ileostomy during a 12 month and 6 day hospital stay in 2018. I was lucky enough to have it reversed before I left hospital. But I still watch all your postings. You are charming and fascinating. Thank you for sharing your life and times with us. Lotsa love from Australia.

[@narutoniichan]

After radiotherapy on my cervix i have had to use these things. They are the bane of my existence.

[@Dr3Mc3Ninja]

The "wand" one... all I see is a sickle. It's great that they have helped you.

[@robertapascal6962]

Thanks for sharing. We should all be able to talk about our life, no matter how sone would frown at it.

[@anitaokey3073]

I've had my colon and rectum removed as well as my large bowel from ulcerative colitis. I had a jpouch created from my small intestine and I to have problems with my period. People with a j pouch has used dilators at home. I've not but glad to see this vid x

[@linanicolia1363]

This condition was prior to the removal of your rectum and I guess it validated your decision to get rid of it. However, the connection between the rectum and the vagina is a close one, so either fistulas may occur or you may have some tightness which comes from the healing process of the tissues, in that "neck of the wood." Adhesions ? scar tissue ? all part of healing, whether we find it useful or annoying. Not a walk in the park, when we radically change our natural anatomy. You are a fighter and evidently inspiring and supporting, many women in your condition. Keep up the good work ! You are looking great !

[@patriciaruth2894]

Thank you for sharing your story Maggie! You are always so positive and an inspiration to anyone with IBD

[@Evie-Hope]

Super important video. Thanks for posting.

[@crystalsocia1123]

I have nothing like this.. I just really like you, your sweet & cute.. makes me feel bad but then it don’t cuz your so strong & brave.. & I watch you & I learn something from you that I know nothing about.. you are just amazing person… love that you take about it cuz everyone is so different but yet same & it does make some feel better.. thank you & gross or not I love every video you do.. just cuz I learn something new. Thank You for being you & being brave & on for talking about something like this.. 💙💋💜

[@wendyy__6893]

Thanks for sharing Maggie! I recently had my takedown surgery and I’m learning how to use my Jpouch.. there’s times I struggle on the toilet and I have read about pelvic floor therapy helps relieve any tension down there with the muscles.. I just hope my colorectal surgeon helps me understand a bit more of this since it’s offered at his office.

[@krystalaurelia7128]

How are you adapting after takedown surgery? I tried shortly after my colectomy but there was too much inflammation and I had to reverse it. I’m going on for surgery soon to try again. I don’t get to talk to anyone who’s done this

[@vickytime3855]

@@krystalaurelia7128 I had my j-pouch for three years, but had a lot of constant inflammation as well. I hope your next attempt at takedown works out well for you.

[@judyatpalmetto]

I’m a newbie as you are. Is take down surgery the term used for having a colostomy? It sounds so much better. My dr has not been all that helpful with terminology. He told me to stick my finger up my bum. I chose the dilators myself as it is so much more comfortable. Did you start the pelvic floor therapy right away? I just started a month ago and my “take down” was in January. Best wishes and success to you.

[@krystalaurelia7128]

@@vickytime3855 Thank you! Are things better for you now? I am really open this works out well.

[@krystalaurelia7128]

@@judyatpalmetto "Take down" Is actually a term for those of us who had their entire colon removed and in its place a J pouch was created. A J Pouch is taking a section of the small intestine and forming a J shape so it can connect to the anus. This means that you have the ability to reverse the ostomy bag. I had a lot of trouble with mine so I have an ileostomy right now. I am much better so I will be going in for another surgery to fix some things and then after I heal from that attempting to use the J Pouch again. I hope that helps.

[@laurabuche5191]

great video and explanations, Maggie! Thank you very much, I'm sure it will help a lot of people

[@vickytime3855]

Thank you SO MUCH for talking about this. I have had some of the same issues.

[@figmo397]

I've had to use pelvic dilators, so I can totally relate. Thanks for the hints about the silicone dilators. I've used the hard plastic ones and they hurt.

[@sharonheadland9233]

Thank you for sharing. I think you and hubby are amazing.You have been through so much in your life and I think your both great xxxx

[@Michael-MYR]

Howdy Maggie and Zak, keep smiling.

[@LetsTalkIBD]

Hello! And Zak says hello as well!

[@lexijolley6348]

I love your shirt!!! Thanks for the educational material 😊

[@tinatrebilcock8307]

I’m going to have APR surgery soon ,I have Anal /rectal cancer stage 3 and the radiation and chemo did not get rid of the tumor,I would like to know how long you were in the hospital,I did watch your other videos from that time , but don’t remember your length of stay and how long the surgery takes

[@zb2363]

You were traumatized as a child. I’m so very sorry you had to endure this. If you haven’t, you might consider some talk therapy to try to heal these deep emotional wounds. I know, why would you want to bring back these bad memories? It’s a good way being more peace to our deepest memories and traumas and this is very helpful for just living our lives today :) Rock on, Maggie!

[@Meskarune]

Please stop telling strangers to go to therapy. It's patronizing and gross. You are making massive assumptions about another person you don't even know.

[@zb2363]

@@Meskarune thank you for your reply. I was only trying to make a suggestion, not tell someone what to do. But I will keep this in mind and learn from your words, thank you.

[@reneeodom861]

Thank you for talking about this.

[@almazmengistu8400]

Hi Maggie I hv the same kind of surgery and the same problem during intercourse. Good advice Thank you

[@mysticalmisty9772]

I’ve recently been given dialaters because of Vulva cancer & I have ulcerative colitis, I might end up having it all taken away but if it makes me well it will be worth it…

[@billtozier9081]

Thankyou for your courage.Amazon absolutely should not list those as toys. No one wants to be on that mailing list.

[@beckhamwestwick]

Hey! Thank you for being so open and informative. I know the subject can be a bit embarrassing but it’s your body ya know. Anyhow, I am having the worst pain in my intestines and I am just lost. I can’t get help I’ve done so many tests I can’t even think straight. I just need relief. The pain is unbearable to the point where it feels like I’m going to die. I know it isn’t your job to help me but if you could offer me any suggestions for help I would be eternally grateful. I know I’m just an internet subscriber but I felt so happy to find your channel because no one gets it. If you have a way to email or DM or something that would be amazing. Have a blessed day. 💜👸🏽💜

[@ac6554]

You should go to an ER for further evaluation

[@beckhamwestwick]

@@ac6554 oh I did! Many times. I’m under my doctors care so hopefully things will settle down soon. Thanks for the comment!

[@summersalix]

Do u find a menstrual cup helps during the menstrual cycle to prevent fluid from building and/or assisting the process, if thst makes sense, lol? I would think it would help keep that area from collapsing into the rectal area but I could be wrong.

[@LetsTalkIBD]

I use a disc because I have a little trouble getting the cup in, but yes! It collects the fluid great! I'm not sure it keeps anything from collapsing, but it helps prevent the "gush"!

[@summersalix]

@@LetsTalkIBD thanks for replying! Can u share the name of rhe disc u use? That's a device I'm not aware of! Oh, BTW, I LOVE your "stop staring at my butt" shirt on your merch shop! It's on my Xmas list lol... It's so hilariously creative and will Def be a shirt I proudly wear often! 🤗 💩

[@tamarak9393]

This video was very informative. I have a jpouch and I would often have to get my rectum dilated. My surgeon would do this in the operating room cause I had to be put out.

[@melaniepoulton6738]

I need to go to have Pelvic floor therapy but am a little embarrassed due to some other issues I have related to my surgery. I don't have fluid collection but have an issue with my bladder due to having staples in my perineal area for 7 weeks to support an infection. Do you think this will make a difference?

[@libertylover4575]

MAGGIE, I’m curious - do you regret having the surgery to remove the rectum & colon? If you could go back in time & do it over again, would you look into alternatives to the surgical removal?

[@LetsTalkIBD]

Not one bit! I actually wish I had done it from the start, so I would have had more time to understand how my body would work post-op before wanting kids. I feel so much better now and unfortunately where my disease was located meant I couldn't do things like a j-pouch. My anus essentially didn't function properly anymore and was scarred.

[@NorseButterfly]

I have a question, that might, and probably is, TMI, but I have to ask... Is it "normal" for a crohns/colitis patient to instantly have diarrhea, without their knowledge, during intercourse? I literally stopped having all sexual relations because of this, because, even though my partner was extremely kind about the situation, I became so embarrassed by it. Even during "play", any time he would enter me, I would have to go shower while he washed up and changed the sheets. I ended our relationship because I didn't think it was fair to him that I was at this point of being so embarrassed that I no longer wanted to have any kind of sexual activity with him, for fear that I would poo everywhere. Plus, even though he was OK with the clean up and changing the sheets, it killed the mood, and I would worry about bacterial infections. I haven't brought this up with my GI yet, because he's never asked if I'm sexually active or if I have a partner. Is this "common"? Or do I really need to bring this up to my Dr?

[@krystalaurelia7128]

I would def speak to your doc about this. If you’re seeing a specialist they will know how to help you.

[@maryinsanfrancisco]

Please see your doctor. It's altering your life and has made you end a relationship with a nice person. I don't have any experience with this I just know that you deserve to have a happy and healthy intimate relationship so please talk to your doctor about it and keep looking for a solution until you find one that works for you.

[@brandonshaw7619]

Yea see a Dr I had colitis and would have accidents the urgency would defeat me The issue you are having is due to your muscles

[@pjk1714]

Maggie mentioned issues with her bag in a previous video. What you are describing is a muscle thing but should be shared with Doc. I'm simplifying here but made a difference in care when shared.

[@irisortiz4420]

Thank you for sharing GOD Bless You

[@wwk9415]

Thank you so much for sharing! 💜

[@JustMe-px9qy]

Thank you so much!

[@olddudesteve4983]

“Hello KZbin ?…. Yes, I would like to report an obscene video…??” Maggie, So glad the Pelvic Floor therapy worked for you, not only for the “mechanical” functions that you talked about, but it sounds like it greatly restored your confidence in yourself and in the way you feel about your own body, and of course, the improvement in the ‘ol sex life, who wouldn’t want that. Bravo to you Both! 👏👏❤️❤️🥳🥳 But what drawer do you keep those in ?

[@njanderson4342]

Thank you. My doctor won't deal with these discussions.

[@krystalaurelia7128]

You need a new doctor. Seriously, that’s not ok.

[@Brandi.65]

How's Zack? Miss seeing him too.

[@TraumaSurvivorCynthia]

🙈 My pain is real with having severe Lichen Sclerosis😢 which is open ulcers on my vulvar with no cure!!✌️And I suffer with rectal prolapse also. 💩 Lidocaine gel is my friend!!🙏 #davesandersstepdaughter

[@Shawna_Wenski]

I wish you had a email I like to ask you a few question about this?

[@molchmolchmolchmolch]

I feel weird about this use of dilators to facilitate penetrative sex... it feels so geared towards satisfying men. Esp knowing that only a very small percentage of women experience vaginal orgasms.

[@leabugmp]

As someone dealing with this issue, it's about more than this. I also have fluid collection after my proctectomy and the random gushes are horrible. I have to wear a pad because there is enough that it would drench my clothing all the time- and sometimes it can overflow those within seconds too, it looks like I wet myself. I get recurrent infections because it can't drain so stuff grows in there out of control. I just started using dilators in an attempt to stretch out scar tissue and make it so it can drain on its own and stop the embarrassing messes and the infections. Intercourse matters too for me, but there's much more than that involved.

[@jackiebeans2689]

💕💕💕💕

[@consueloessis]

Those dilators are useless, good for nothing; like you say those muscles close right back inmediately. I hate those dilators, I rather live with the stricture.

[@LetsTalkIBD]

I feel like they might work for some, but definitely did very little with all the scar tissue I had!

[@shenazpatel8195]

Hello

[@LetsTalkIBD]

Hey there! How are you feeling?

[@shenazpatel8195]

@@LetsTalkIBD hey...I am very nervous about the kidney...what did you have done for your kidneys???

[@LetsTalkIBD]

@@shenazpatel8195 I am keeping you in my prayers!! ♡ I had a narrow ureter between my right kidney and bladder, so it meant that kidney couldn't drain into my bladder. It was super painful, so I had surgery to resect the narrow part (much like intestinal resections) which helped so much! I no longer have the pain. The actual terms for it were UPJ obstruction and the surgery was called pyeloplasty

[@shenazpatel8195]

@@LetsTalkIBD thanks mags!!!!