Apprenez avec Comfizz

Autumn has arrived, and unfortunately that usually means coughs, colds and flu aren't too far behind. For most people, an irritating cough is exactly that, irritating. But when you've had stoma surgery, or you're living with a parastomal hernia, suddenly coughing and sneezing can feel a little more concerning. You might find yourself wondering: Am I putting too much pressure on my stoma? Could coughing cause a hernia? Should I hold my stomach when I sneeze? They're very reasonable questions. The reassuring bit is that coughing shouldn't normally harm your stoma itself. What it does do is briefly increase the pressure inside your abdomen, which is why you can sometimes feel pulling, pressure or discomfort around your stoma when you...

Hot weather can be lovely,  longer days, lighter clothes, holidays, fresh air and time outside. But when you live with a stoma, warmer weather can also bring a few extra things to think about. You might notice your pouch feels warmer against your skin. You may sweat more around your appliance. Your output might change. You might feel more tired than usual. Or you might feel more aware of your stoma when wearing lighter summer clothing. None of this means you can’t enjoy warm weather. It just means your body and your routine may need a little extra support. In this blog, we’ll look at how hot weather can affect people living with an ostomy, and what you can do...

Wondering if you can swim after stoma surgery? The answer is yes,  absolutely. Here's everything you need to know to get back in the water.

Planning your first trip since stoma surgery? This step-by-step confidence guide covers everything, from when you're ready to fly, to what to pack, to how to enjoy every moment

: Heading somewhere sunny with your stoma? Heat and humidity can affect adhesion and output. Here's how to manage your stoma in warm weather — and still enjoy every minute.

Airport security is the #1 travel worry for ostomates. Here's exactly what happens, what your rights are, and how to get through smoothly and confidently.

Heading on holiday with a stoma? Here's exactly what to pack, how much to bring, and the golden rule that every travelling ostomate needs to know.

MINI BLOG SERIES TRAVEL - 1 OF 5 Introduction If you've been putting off a holiday or turning down trips since your stoma surgery, you're not alone. The idea of travelling with an ostomy, navigating airports, unfamiliar toilets, different food, and being far from home can feel overwhelming. But here's the thing: the reality is almost always easier than the worry. Thousands of ostomates fly, drive, cruise, and backpack their way around the world every single year. Some have been to 30+ countries since their surgery. The stoma didn't stop them. A little preparation replaced the fear. Jonathan has a stoma, and he set off to Brazil, Peru, Machu Picchu and Argentina. Look out for his upcoming travel series on...

MINI BLOG SERIES INTIMACY - 5 of 5 If you're single, thinking about dating, or recently back on the scene after stoma surgery, this one's for you.The short version: yes, you can date with a stoma. Many thousands of ostomates do, successfully and happily. Online Dating You don't need to mention your stoma in your profile It's a medical detail, not a personalitytrait. Focus on who you are. 🩷 When to share: When you feel a genuine connection and things are progressing toward meeting or intimacy. 🩷 Some ostomates do mention it early:  and find it works as an effective filter. The people whorespond positively are the ones worth your time. The Conversation The key mindset: confidence is contagious. You're...