J-Pouch Ostomy Advice and Considerations

Having a J-Pouch can have it’s own set of issues as well as overlapping concerns and adapations that every ostomate faces. This video explains so much about having an J-Pouch and what to do. Nurse Beth-Ann Norton N.P. , director of Nursing at Brigham and Women’s Hospital Crohn’s & Colitis Center gives so much great advice.

What is a J-Pouch

A J-Pouch is an internal ostomy which means it is not visible. In this video Nurse Beth-Ann Norton N.P. , director of Nursing at Brigham and Women’s Hospital Crohn’s & Colitis Center explain clearly how one is made. There are slides that demonstrate and give a nice visual too. 

It is made out of some of the small intestine, the colon and rectum are removed but the anus is still functioning. You still pass stool through your anus compared to into a bag/pouch as with a colostomy or ilesotomy.

Highly skilled Nurse Beth-Ann Norton, N.P. , director of Nursing at Brigham and Women’s Hospital Crohn’s & Colitis Center talks with Elaine about what a J-Pouch ostomy is, who and why this is a good option for some people. Post-operative considerations with output and diet. Beth-Ann explains what pouchitis and cuffitis. Issues around sexual function, as well as pregnancy and fertility issues with a J-Pouch.

Who is a J-Pouch candidate

A J-Pouch typical only works for some people with Ulcerative Colitis, not Crohn’s disease, if you have abdominal trauma or familial polyposis. 

Post-operative concerns

As with other ostomies you have to keep hydrated and you might have high out.  There can be perianal skin irritation as it takes time for the body to adjust. This is explained well in the video and how to have more control. You will also learn about pouchitis which is inflammation in the pouch and what you can do. Cuffitis is inflammation of the anal transition zone.

Sexual Function

There are sexual function issues that do occur and which are now being talked about much more. Make sure the check out the slide about this.

Pregnancy

Yes it is possible to get pregnant and go through pregnancy with a J-Pouch. This is something that should be talked through with your medical team. With a J-Pouch it is best to have a c-section so as not to rupture the j-pouch. With other ostomies a natural birth would be preferable due to the external ostomy.

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Other Resources

The UOAA has great content

The Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation