Job Interviews: To Disclose or Not to Disclose?

You're sitting in the waiting room, resume in hand, trying to decide if you should mention your ostomy during the interview. Your heart is racing, and honestly, not just from interview nerves. Should you tell them? Will they think differently of you? What are your rights?

If this sounds familiar, you're not alone. Most of us have wrestled with this decision, and there's no one-size-fits-all answer. But there are some important things to consider that can help you make the choice that feels right for your situation.

The Legal Reality: You Don't Have To

Let's start with what you need to know legally. Under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), you are absolutely not required to disclose your ostomy during the interview process. In fact, employers legally cannot ask you about it.

What Employers Can't Ask

• Do you have any medical conditions or disabilities?
• Have you had any surgeries?
• Do you take any medications?
• How many sick days did you use at your last job?
• Can you lift 50 pounds? (unless it's a genuine job requirement)

What They Can Ask

• Can you perform the essential functions of this job?
• Do you need any accommodations to perform the job? (but only after making a job offer)
• Can you work the required schedule?

Pros and Cons of Disclosure

While you're not legally required to disclose, there are practical considerations for both approaches:

Benefits of Disclosing During Interviews

• No surprises later: You know they're okay with it from day one
• Accommodation discussions: You can address any needs upfront
• Company culture test: Their reaction tells you about the workplace environment
• Reduced anxiety: No stress about "when to tell them"
• Authentic representation: You can discuss how your experiences have shaped your resilience and problem-solving skills

Reasons to Wait

• Lead with qualifications: Let your skills and experience be the focus
• Build rapport first: Establish yourself as a person before medical information
• Avoid unconscious bias: Some people may have misconceptions they're not even aware of
• Control the narrative: You can choose the timing and context later
• Privacy preference: Some people simply prefer to keep medical information private

When Disclosure Makes Sense

Here are some situations where mentioning your ostomy during the interview process might be beneficial:

You Need Specific Accommodations

If the job requires accommodations like flexible bathroom breaks, adjusted travel schedules, or modified physical requirements, it's often easier to discuss this upfront.

Your Experience Adds Value

If you've developed skills through your medical journey that are relevant to the role – like crisis management, adaptability, or empathy – you might choose to share your story as part of your qualifications.

It's a Healthcare or Disability-Related Field

Working in healthcare, disability advocacy, or related fields might make your lived experience an asset worth mentioning.

Company Culture Seems Inclusive

If the company actively promotes diversity, inclusion, and employee wellbeing, they're more likely to respond positively to disclosure.

How to Disclose (If You Choose To)

If you decide to mention your ostomy, here are some approaches that work well:

Focus on Capabilities

"I have a medical condition that's well-managed and doesn't impact my ability to do this job. I might occasionally need a few extra minutes for restroom breaks, but I'm fully capable of meeting all the job requirements."

Emphasize Stability

"I had surgery that resulted in an ostomy, which has actually improved my overall health significantly. I'm stable, healthy, and ready to contribute to your team."

Turn It Into a Strength

"My health journey has taught me incredible resilience and problem-solving skills. I've learned to stay calm under pressure and find creative solutions – skills that I think would be valuable in this role."

Strategies for Waiting to Disclose

If you choose not to disclose during interviews, here's how to handle it:

Focus on Your Qualifications

Let your skills, experience, and personality shine. Answer questions about your ability to do the job confidently and honestly.

Plan for Later Disclosure

Think about when and how you'll tell your employer later. Many people choose to disclose after starting, during onboarding, or when requesting accommodations.

Know Your Accommodation Needs

Even if you don't disclose initially, understand what accommodations you might need so you can request them later if necessary.

Red Flags in Interview Responses

Whether you disclose or not, watch for these warning signs about company culture:

• Negative comments about employee sick leave usage
• Emphasis on "we need someone who never gets sick"
• Dismissive attitudes toward work-life balance
• Lack of clear policies around accommodations
• Comments that suggest inflexibility around schedules

Handling Discriminatory Questions

If an interviewer asks inappropriate questions about your health, here are some professional responses:

Redirect to Qualifications

"I'm fully capable of performing all the essential functions of this job. Is there a specific aspect of the role you'd like me to address?"

Politely Decline

"I prefer to keep my medical information private, but I can assure you that I have no limitations that would prevent me from excelling in this position."

Know When to Walk Away

If they persist with inappropriate questions or react poorly to your boundaries, consider whether this is somewhere you'd want to work.

After You Get the Job

Once you've been hired, you have more protection and flexibility around disclosure:

Timing Your Disclosure

• During onboarding with HR
• When requesting specific accommodations
• After building relationships with your team
• When it becomes relevant to your work

Requesting Accommodations

Once employed, you have the right to reasonable accommodations. These might include:

• Flexible restroom breaks
• Adjustments to travel schedules
• Modified physical requirements
• Flexible work hours if needed

Building Confidence

Regardless of when or how you choose to disclose, building confidence is key:

• Know your worth: Your skills and experience matter more than your medical history
• Practice your story: If you do disclose, practice explaining it in a confident, matter-of-fact way
• Research the company: Understanding their values can guide your decision
• Have a support system: Talk through your concerns with trusted friends or mentors
• Trust your instincts: If something feels off about their response, pay attention to that

Real Talk: Success Stories

I know people who have succeeded with both approaches. Some disclosed upfront and found employers who were completely supportive from day one. Others waited until after they were hired and had equally positive experiences.

What matters most is choosing the approach that feels authentic and comfortable for you. There's no wrong choice – only the choice that's right for your situation, comfort level, and career goals.

Final Thoughts

The decision to disclose your ostomy during job interviews is deeply personal. Some days you might feel ready to put it all out there, other days you might prefer to keep it private. Both approaches are valid.

Remember that you bring valuable skills, perspectives, and experiences to any workplace. Your ostomy doesn't define your professional capabilities, and the right employer will recognize that.

Take time to think about what feels right for you, know your rights, and trust that you have the skills and qualifications to succeed regardless of when or how you choose to share this part of your story.