Communicating to loved ones about TAI
It might be important to you to be able to discuss your bowel concerns and transanal irrigation (TAI) routine with your partner. Ideally, you should be able to do this in a relaxed, non-pressured way. It may feel uncomfortable at first, however, with time, these conversations can bring you closer together and allows your partner to be a supportive of your TAI routine. You don’t have to do this alone.
Balancing open conversations and privacy
If you are living with a bowel dysfunction, it's natural for your partner to be concerned about your health. Perhaps they want to discuss this with you, or perhaps you have already broached the topic. This is great, because they want to support you and ensure you are well!
Be open to discussing your feelings surrounding TAI. Share your worries and listen to your partner’s concerns. Honesty will only help build mutual trust and respect between you. Be patient and allow both yourself and your partner time to come to terms with your TAI routine.
It's also normal to sometimes want privacy. Consider establishing boundaries around these conversations so that you don’t feel like your bowel dysfunction or TAI defines you or your relationship.
Approach this conversation gently and remember they are only trying to be supportive. If your TAI routine is going well you may want to suggest that they assume that unless told otherwise. This might help you maintain your daily routine without discussing your bowel too often or feeling that it defines you or your relationship.
Performing TAI at home when your partner is there
Even if you are open about your TAI routine, you may still be nervous about how it might affect intimacy. Be transparent about these feelings and talk about strategies to overcome any concerns.
Talk to your partner if you would like extra privacy until you are more comfortable. If you feel self-conscious and your home allows for it, you may opt to use your transanal irrigation system in a designated bathroom, or if needed, ask if you can be alone.
You may also want to use background noise to help distract both yourself and your partner. Put the TV on in another room, or play your favourite music during TAI. You may even suggest your partner does another house chore at the same time, such as vacuuming or gardening. If you explain how this would make you feel more comfortable, they will be on board!
Maintaining healthy communication
Ultimately, you need to be patient when getting used to your new TAI routine. You may be worried that TAI will affect intimacy or romance at home, but maintaining open communication and talking about how you feel will help your partner understand. This can also help build trust and respect between you.
Allow both yourself and your partner the time you need. If you're struggling, or would like further support from Coloplast Care, call 1-855-605-7594 or email peristeen@coloplast.com
Important Safety Information: Peristeen Plus is available by prescription only. Peristeen Plus empties the bowel by introducing water into the bowel using a rectal catheter. The anal irrigation procedure should always be carried out with care. Bowel perforation is an extremely rare, but serious and potentially lethal complication to anal irrigation and will require immediate admission to hospital, often requiring surgery. The risk information provided here is not comprehensive. To learn more, talk to your healthcare provider to understand the risks and benefits to determine if Peristeen Plus is right for you. This treatment is prescribed by your physician. Although many patients benefit from the use of this device, results may vary. For further questions, call Coloplast Corp. at 1-855-605-7594 and/or consult the company website at www.coloplast.us
