Pregnancy, Contraception, Infertility, and the Ileostomy and the ileo-anal pouch

Written by Marcus Setchell FRCS, FRCOG and Clive Spence-Jones FRCS, MRCOG.

For many men and women with ileostomies or internal pouches, the establishment of a lasting sexual relationship and the possibility of having a family is a natural desire at the end of a long period of ill-health, and it may be seen as the final symbol of new found health and acceptance of any inconvenience or embarrassment associated with their illness.

There are many half-truths and, frankly, misleading ideas bandied around in relation to what to expect from sex life, pregnancy, etc. after an ileostomy or ileo-anal pouch operation, and this leaflet is intended to dispel some of these.

Members wishing to receive a copy should contact IA National Office.