If you’re having trouble sleeping after your ostomy surgery due to worries about leakage or rolling over on your pouch, that’s completely normal. But there are options that will help you relax and get back to a restful sleep schedule. Here are our top tips for improving your sleep after ostomy surgery.

Top 4 Tips For Better Sleep Quality After Ostomy Surgery

Is it possible to get a good night’s sleep after an ostomy procedure? Yes! In some cases, just the fact that you have had the procedure to address the underlying condition that required you to get an ostomy may help you sleep better.

Of course, some people may experience sleep interruptions, increased stress, and fear of pouch leakage right after ostomy surgery. However, you may need to make some adjustments based on the type of procedure you have had.

Try Sleeping On Your Back Or Side

After ostomy surgery, your doctor may suggest that you sleep on your back or on your side. Of course, you’ll want to stay off of the side of your abdomen where your stoma is located.

Many ostomates find they prefer sleeping on their back. It may take a little time to get used to your new sleep position. However, you’ll be getting better sleep again in no time.

Put Pillows Around You

Do you tend to roll around or move a lot in your sleep? If so, that’s a potential problem when you’re wearing an ostomy bag at night.

You’ve got options though! One way people help limit their movement and stay in one position at night is by using pillows or foam wedges. Just place them around you snugly, whether you’re on your back or side.

Wear a Snug Shirt or an Ostomy Wrap

When you’re ready to go to sleep, wear a snug shirt or an ostomy wrap. This will help keep your pouch snug against your body during the night.

While this won’t support your pouch exactly the same as an ostomy support belt, a snug shirt or an ostomy wrap may still help support the weight of your pouch overnight too.

Empty or Change Your Pouch Before Bed

One way you can reduce the need to get up in the middle of the night to empty or change your pouch is to do it right before bed.

Try to set an alarm if you are a firm sleeper so that you can try and avoid leaks or messes in the middle of the night.

It will be an adjustment at first but will become more and more familiar and a habit as time goes on.