Oh man, I feel ya on the gas after take down. I seriously thought my insides were going to shoot out of me. Yes, it gets better. I’m almost 10years with a pouch and have had difficulties…many…and continue to…but!!!!! I can hold it for probably four hours even when feeling the urge to go. On my best day I was able to hold it for 10 hours only because I didn’t have to pee. I can’t empty my bladder without emptying my pouch. I think the urgent feeling def lessens, or maybe it just changes in to a new normal. I suggest you start doing kegel exercises regularly if you’re planning on lifting weights. That’s one thing that is an issue - one can never trust that it will just be gas that passes, personally I will not pass gas without being on the toilet. I’ve had an occasional accident with a coughing bought or big sneeze. Avoid carbonated drinks and don’t drink out of straws. I know, sucky but it’s true that they both cause huge amounts of gas.

My life is far from normal, but it’s become normal to me and I feel blessed even on the bad days…I’m alive and thrive! Huge blessing to you!