Resuming activities

You can enjoy the physical and social activities you did before surgery once you have healed. Having an ostomy should not stop you from living an active life.

Immediately after surgery

At first, activities are restricted while you get your strength back. Recovery at home is generally 6-8 weeks. You may heal more quickly or more slowly depending on several factors. Some of these factors include your age, your health before surgery, whether you have other health concerns, and if you had any complications during surgery or your recovery.

Driving, lifting (anything over 5 lbs) and housework are not recommended. Your surgeon, GP or Nurse Specialized in Wound, Ostomy & Continence (NSWOC)/WOC nurse can help guide you to slowly resume activities.

Energy and fatigue after surgery

After ostomy surgery it is normal to be tired. This is because healing from ostomy surgery takes a lot of energy so your body needs a lot of rest. Use your energy levels as your guide for returning to your usual activities. You may find that you “over-do” it once you start to have more energy and are more fatigued the next day. Be patient. Healing takes time. If you have concerns, talk to your NSWOC or GP.