Doctor's response to queries on operation recovery and Covid vaccine and pregnancy
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TWO typical questions from the doctor's postbag.
Q. I am due to go in for an ileostomy and I am worried about recovery?
A. After the operation you may be attached to a drip placed directly into your vein that provides fluids and have an oxygen mask or nasal tubes to help you breathe. These will be removed as you recover.
A special bag is also placed over the opening in your abdomen (stoma). This will initially appear large because the effects of surgery cause it to swell. It usually shrinks during the weeks after the operation, reaching its final size after about eight weeks.
While you’re in hospital a stoma nurse will teach you how to care for your stoma, including how to empty and change the bag, and will explain the different types of equipment available and how to get supplies.
You may need to stay in hospital for up to two weeks. This varies depending on things like your general health and the type of operation.
You’ll be given advice about activities to avoid while recovering.
Most normal activities are usually possible within eight weeks, although you will often be advised to avoid more strenuous activities for about three months.
Q. I have concerns about the Covid-19 vaccination and pregnancy. Can you give me more information?
A. The Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) has recognised that the potential benefits of vaccination are particularly important for some pregnant women.
The vaccines do not contain organisms that can multiply in the body, so they cannot infect an unborn baby in the womb. You cannot catch coronavirus from the vaccines.
Although the vaccine has not been tested in pregnancy, you may decide that the known risks from coronavirus are so clear that you wish to go ahead with vaccination.
