I stared at that pool for about 20 minutes before I got in. My first time swimming after getting my ostomy felt like the biggest deal ever. Spoiler alert: it really wasn't. But I get why it feels that way, so let me walk you through what actually happens when you take that first plunge.
The Mental Game is Harder Than the Physical
Here's the truth – your ostomy isn't going to fall off, your bag isn't going to explode, and you're not going to "leak into the pool" (seriously, I worried about this for weeks). The hardest part is getting over the mental hurdles you've built up in your head.
I spent more time googling "can I swim with an ostomy" than actually swimming that first summer. The answer is yes, you absolutely can, and it's probably going to be more normal than you expect.
"The water doesn't know you have an ostomy. It's just going to feel like... swimming."
What Actually Happens in the Water
Your bag might fill with a little water – this is totally normal and not a problem. It won't hurt, it won't damage anything, and it'll empty out when you get out of the pool. Some people barely notice it, others are more aware of it, but either way, it's fine.
If you're worried about your wafer coming loose, don't be. Those things are designed to stick through way more than a swimming session. I've never had one come off from swimming, and I know people who practically live in the water.
The Practical Stuff
- Check your seal before you go: Make sure your wafer is properly adhered, but don't stress if there's a tiny edge that's not perfect
- Empty beforehand: Go in with an empty or nearly empty bag – just for comfort
- Bring supplies just in case: Keep a change kit in your bag, even though you probably won't need it
- Consider a belt or binder: Some people like the extra security, others find it unnecessary
💡 Pro Tip
Start in shallow water where you can stand comfortably. There's no rush to dive into the deep end on your first swim back.
Your Body Will Remember
The moment I started swimming laps, my body remembered what it felt like to move through water. All those months of worrying melted away because swimming just felt like... swimming. Your ostomy doesn't change how your arms stroke or how your legs kick.
You might be more aware of your abdomen area at first, which is normal. But after a few minutes, you'll probably forget all about it and just enjoy being in the water.
What About Other People?
This was my biggest concern, honestly. Will people stare? Will they notice? Will they ask questions?
Reality check: Most people are way too focused on their own swimming, their kids, or their poolside relaxation to pay attention to you. And if your bag is visible? Most people either won't know what it is or won't care.
I've been swimming regularly for three years now, and I can count on one hand the number of times anyone has even glanced twice. People are generally much less observant and judgmental than we think they'll be.
After Your First Swim
When you get out, you might want to gently pat dry around your wafer area, but don't go crazy with the toweling. Your bag might have some water in it – just empty it like normal. That's literally it.
The biggest thing you'll probably feel? Relief that it was so much more normal than you expected. And maybe excitement to go swimming again soon.
"The hardest swim is always the first one. After that, it's just swimming."
You've Got This
Your first swim back might feel like a big milestone – and honestly, it kind of is. You're proving to yourself that having an ostomy doesn't mean giving up the things you love.
Take it slow, be gentle with yourself, and remember that thousands of ostomates swim regularly without any issues. You're about to be one of them.
The water is waiting for you, and it's going to feel amazing.