About IBD18 Nov 2025

The Truth About Surviving IBD and Incontinence

Katryna Loewen, a registered nurse diagnosed with ulcerative colitis in 2020, shares her journey through severe flare-ups, incontinence, and her decision to have a colectomy and ileostomy in 2024. She discusses the emotional and physical challenges of living with IBD, the stigma of ostomies, and how these experiences shaped her life, relationships, and career. Katryna also describes managing her mental health, planning her wedding, and preparing for motherhood, offering hope and practical advice to others with IBD.

Episode transcript and more information at: https://bit.ly/AIBD190

Chapters:

00:04 Introduction and Guest Background
02:09 Katrina's Nursing Career
03:08 Ulcerative Colitis Diagnosis
04:48 Remission and Flare-Ups
05:09 Severe Flare in 2023
07:08 Decision for Surgery
10:36 Facing Ostomy Surgery
14:08 Acceptance and Life with an Ostomy
16:08 Impact of IBD on Mental Health
17:18 Incontinence Experiences
23:31 Tracking Symptoms and Advocacy
26:23 Wedding with IBD
28:45 Therapy and Emotional Recovery
32:06 Pregnancy After Ostomy Surgery
37:50 Preparing Pets for Baby
41:54 Support Networks and Advice
43:32 Where to Find Katrina
43:38 Closing Remarks

Find Katryna Loewen at:

Instagram: @goingpains88

Find Amber J Tresca at:

AboutIBD.com: About IBD
Verywell Health: Verywell Health
Facebook: @aboutIBD
Twitter: @aboutIBD
Pinterest: @aboutibd
Instagram: @about_IBD
YouTube: @AboutIBD
https://www.threads.net/@about_ibd

Find Mac Cooney (mix, sound design, and theme music) at:

Facebook: @maccooneycomposer
Instagram: @maccooneycomposer
YouTube: @MacCooneyComposer
Web: Cooney Studio
Theme music, IBD Dance Party, is from ©Cooney Studio.

These show notes contain affiliate links. If you choose to purchase after clicking a link, Mal and Tal Enterprises, LLC may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

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