- Diet
You may find that once you have recovered from the surgery you are able to eat larger meals and a wider range of foods. Eating a balanced and nutritious diet should help your recovery. You may be advised to follow a low residue diet for a while: the hospital will give you details of this. People with a stoma or pouch do not generally need a special diet, although it can help to make a point of eating regular meals, and to take extra fluids and salt. You may also prefer to avoid certain foods. The hospital dietitian should be able to advise you. Our booklet Food and IBD also has further information on diet and Ulcerative Colitis.
- Sex and Pregnancy
Most people are able to resume sexual activity after surgery for Ulcerative Colitis, although it may take a little time, perhaps several months, to recover fully. In men, operations on the rectum can occasionally lead to impotence. This may resolve itself – if not there are several aids and medicines which can help. There is some research to show that both of the main operations most commonly carried out for UC, but especially IPAA surgery, can affect fertility in women. Couples who may want to have a family after UC surgery should discuss this with their consultant. Doctors also usually recommend that women with a stoma or pouch give birth by caesarean section. (For more information see our information sheets Fertility and IBD and Pregnancy and IBD.)
- Emotional Reactions
Everyone reacts to surgery in their own way and some people experience a range of emotions, both before and then after an operation. You may feel apprehension, doubt, acceptance, relief, confidence, a sense of wellbeing and perhaps even some disappointment. It is not uncommon for people with an operation scar or a stoma to feel depressed about their changed body image. This can be a time of worry for family members as well.
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