Ulcerative Colitis Guide: Surviving Bathing Suit Season

Summer is in full swing and people are out in force. Whether it is an actual swimming get together, or just a summer event or barbecue, we have hit that time of year where we are very likely to find people running around in bathing suits. We would like to join them. But there is that thing that seems to hold us back in various areas of our lives: Ulcerative Colitis (UC). It seems that the UC beast lies in wait just until we find something fun we would like to do and rears its ugly head. What can be done about this during bathing suit season?

Choose Your Bathing Suit Carefully

Female UC patients might find that they feel most comfortable in a one piece suit. Finding one with a "control" type midsection may be the best in terms of an all-purpose suit, because it will work well for you whether or not you have feelings of being bloated. If you feel as though your stomach is bloated and uncomfortable, having a shaping swim suit can give you the confidence you need to be able to enjoy the rest of your day. A two-piece suit can leave you feeling exposed and vulnerable. For guys, you might want to stick with swim trunks and leave the Speedo at home.

Eat Carefully

If you know that you are going to be around other people in a swimsuit, be extra careful with what you eat for a few days beforehand. Watch the trigger foods that you know will make you flare up and try to also stay away from things that will give you that uncomfortable full, bloated feeling and the gas that usually comes with it. Also, most summer plans are going to include delicious food of some sort and you will want to be selective about what you eat at your actual event as well. Don't overeat and stay away from things that might have a negative effect on your Ulcerative Colitis.

Know Where Your Bathrooms Are

Find out beforehand where the closest restrooms are going to be, so you can be as comfortable as possible during the actual event. The more of your UC stresses that you can alleviate prior to a swimsuit occasion, the more you will simply be able to relax and enjoy it. You may also find it helpful to subtly carry your UC bathroom survival kit (perfume/cologne, wet wipes, extra undergarments, matches, etc.) in a plastic bag, small purse, or in a rolled up extra towel.

Relax

Remember that the more you get stressed about things, the more likely you are to end up in a flare-up situation. Calm down, relax and enjoy spending time with your family and friends. They love and accept you, Ulcerative Colitis and all. There is no reason that your condition should stop you from having fun in your swimsuit. Plan ahead and be good to your body. Your summer can be just like everyone else's.