Hi. Had a radical cystectomy with the construction of a catheterizable ileal reservoir. I access it 5-6 Times daily with no problems. I am active in running,going to the pool, etc. My question is about the appropriateness of leaving my stoma site uncovered in public. The stoma is about 2 inches to the side of my navel. Do I consider this a private area which would make people uncomfortable to see exposed or should I not worry and consider it like an extra belly button or a third nipple and leave it exposed. I usually don't cover it with a bandage and if I do it is just to prevent the occasional wetspot caused by mucus around the opening.
