ostomy and pregnancy

Explore "ostomy and pregnancy" with insightful episodes like "Taylor Mitchell's Journey: Overcoming Health Challenges" and "Overcoming GI Challenges with Amalia, the Ostomy Dietitian" from podcasts like ""The Beautiful Bag" and "The Beautiful Bag"" and more!

Episodes (2)

Taylor Mitchell's Journey: Overcoming Health Challenges

Welcome to another inspiring episode of The Beautiful Bag Podcast with your host, LeeAnne Hayden. In this episode, we have the privilege of sitting down with a remarkable guest, Taylor Mitchell. Taylor's journey through health challenges is anything but typical, and her resilience and determination are truly inspiring. Join us as we delve into Taylor's unique story and learn about her experiences and her life-changing journey.

Episode Highlights:

LeeAnne introduces her guest, Taylor Mitchell, and shares how she came across Taylor's story on Instagram.
Taylor reflects on her health before her journey began, describing herself as a relatively healthy child who rarely visited the doctor.
At the age of 20, Taylor experienced a sudden health crisis, including nausea, stomach pain, and exhaustion. She recounts a frightening episode where she temporarily lost her vision, which led her to seek medical attention.
Taylor describes her initial misdiagnosis and struggles with doctors who couldn't pinpoint the cause of her symptoms.
Over the course of several years, Taylor's health deteriorated, leading her to see specialists for various systems in her body. She was put on multiple medications to manage her symptoms.
Taylor discusses the emotional toll her health issues took on her, as well as the impact on her college and work life.
Taylor shares her journey of finding the right medical care, including visiting the Mayo Clinic, where she received a diagnosis of pelvic floor dysfunction and chronic constipation.
The importance of pelvic floor therapy in Taylor's recovery and how it helped her regain control over her muscles and alleviate incontinence.
Taylor's decision to undergo a loop ileostomy surgery after years of suffering from chronic constipation and other symptoms.
How Taylor's Instagram journey began as she sought information and resources for managing her ostomy. She realized there was a lack of education and decided to share her experiences with others.
The positive impact Taylor's Instagram presence had on people who were struggling with ostomies and gastrointestinal issues. She provided support and advice to those in need.
Taylor's reflection on the improvements in her overall health and quality of life following her ileostomy surgery.
Her decision to keep her ileostomy due to unresolved rectal issues and her optimism for the future.
Taylor's gratitude for the support of her husband, who also has Crohn's disease and an ostomy, and how they've navigated their health journeys together.

Join us in applauding Taylor Mitchell's incredible resilience and determination in the face of health challenges. Her story is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the importance of seeking the right medical care. If you or someone you know is dealing with similar health issues, Taylor's story may provide guidance, hope, and a sense of community. Thank you for tuning in to The Beautiful Bag Podcast. Stay connected for more inspiring stories and conversations.

Please remember to subscribe, rate, and review our podcast on Apple Podcasts and share it with friends and family who may benefit from these uplifting and informative discussions.

Connect with Us:

Follow The Beautiful Bag Podcast on Instagram: @thebeautifulbagpodcast
Visit the website:https://leeannehayden.com/
Hollister Incorporated Hydration Video

Disclaimer: The content provided in this podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider for personalized guidance and treatment options.

enOctober 11, 2023

Overcoming GI Challenges with Amalia, the Ostomy Dietitian

In this week's Episode I speak with Amalia (The Ostomy Dietitian)

Amalia's Early Health Struggles

Amalia discusses her lifelong GI problems, from childhood to college, including vomiting, reflux, and dietary restrictions. She mentions her appendectomy during her college years.

The Onset of Severe GI Symptoms

Amalia's journey into adulthood is marked by the escalation of GI symptoms. She talks about her early career as a dietitian in a high-stress environment and the daily struggles she faced with pain, mucus, blood, and frequent bowel movements. The challenge of advocating for herself during medical appointments is highlighted.

Misdiagnoses and Continued Struggles

Amalia's frustration with repeated misdiagnoses and lack of effective treatment is shared. The doctors' focus on her rectum is mentioned, despite escalating symptoms. She describes living with prolapse, fissures, and fistulas, all abnormal for pelvic floor issues. The couple's move to Canada and her experiences with the healthcare system there are discussed.

The Turning Point and the Decision to Act

Amalia's decision to seek specialized care in the U.S. after facing delays in Canada is explained. She emphasizes the importance of taking control of her health and discusses her husband's initial shock at the severity of her condition. The toll of her condition on her mental and physical health is highlighted.

Finding Hope Through Surgery

Amalia's journey to the Cleveland Clinic in Florida and her encounter with a renowned colorectal surgeon are discussed. Her decision to undergo a temporary ileostomy is explained, despite having no formal diagnosis. The relief she experienced after surgery and the end of eight years of pain are highlighted. Amelia reflects on the resilience of her personality.

The Post-Surgery Recovery and Challenges

Amalia shares her recovery experience, including a month-long hospital stay. The adjustment to life with an ileostomy is discussed. Unexpected abdominal pain after surgery and its connection to her first-ever period at age 29 are mentioned. The importance of her medical team's support during the recovery period is emphasized.

Continuing the Journey

Amalia's determination to start a family and her pursuit of this goal are discussed, highlighting her husband's supportive role. The decision to have her colon removed and her path to healing and starting a family are explored.

The Surprising Second Pregnancy

Amalia shares her remarkable experience of becoming pregnant naturally after deciding to pursue surrogacy. The challenges of managing pregnancy with an ostomy and diversion colitis are discussed.

The Struggles Continue

Amalia discusses the difficulties she faced with her second pregnancy, including blockages and preterm birth. The emotional toll of being separated from her newborn son, who needed NICU care, is explored. Her determination to continue breastfeeding despite the challenges is mentioned.

Unexpected Complications and Another Surgery

Amalia reveals that she faced unexpected issues with her ostomy, leading to the need for revision surgery. The emotional and physical toll of undergoing surgery with a young baby at home is discussed. The importance of resilience in the face of ongoing health challenges is emphasized.

Wrapping Up and Looking to the Future

LeeAnne and Amalia reflect on the incredible journey Amelia has been on, from ostomy surgery to motherhood. Amelia shares her perspective on the unique gifts and challenges of her experience.

Connect with Amalia on Instagram

Connect with LeeAnne on Instagram

enSeptember 20, 2023

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ostomy and pregnancy

Episodes (2)

Taylor Mitchell's Journey: Overcoming Health Challenges

Overcoming GI Challenges with Amalia, the Ostomy Dietitian