Having an ostomy doesn\’t limit you from becoming pregnant. With preparation in conjunction with your care team, you can have a healthy pregnancy and baby. There is a chance you may experience decreased fertility with a permanent ostomy, so make sure to discuss fertility with your doctor to get connected to a Maternal-Fetal Medicine specialist or other fertility specialist.

During your pregnancy, the size of your stoma may increase, but it will return to normal after delivery. You may need to make some adjustments with the products or supplies used for the skin barrier to adjust for changes in size as well as using a mirror or having your partner assist with the ostomy as your stomach grows and the stoma falls out of view. Having a stoma does not prevent you from having a vaginal delivery, however your doctor and team may have a surgeon on-call during delivery.

Related Articles:

• Preparing for Pregnancy with IBD
• IBD Parenthood Project