In this video from Laura Cox, Shield HealthCare’s Ostomy Lifestyle Specialist, she tells viewers how to tell someone you have an ostomy. Her tips include developing a script, and having it be as universal as possible, so that you can use it for family, friends and acquaintances alike. Laura talks about how knowing what your goal is when telling someone can be helpful to keep the discussion on track. Other tips include talks about where to have the discussion (Laura tells her favorite time) and how to begin the conversation. Sometimes, the person you’re telling may be concerned about concerned about your lifestyle or surgery, or not want to listen, in which case you can wrap up the discussion. Laura also talks about what to do when someone is asking for more information than you are comfortable giving. Be sure to keep the discussion as positive as possible!
You can also read Laura’s article on this topic here.
For more information, see related ostomy articles and resources here:
- Intimacy with an Ostomy
- Ostomy Misconceptions | New Ostomates
- Inform Yourself about Ostomies
- Support Network – Who Should be in Yours?
- Famous People with Ostomies
Shield HealthCare | Medical Supplies For Care At Home Since 1957
Hey Laura, I’m a new ostomate and just got the clearance from my doctor to resume a regular diet. Any tips for things I should watch out for? 
