Its a fact that intensive exercising can cause abdominal issues. We do not have a colon so we are more fragile. Some people here do not agree but its on the internet. I try to keep my sessions at 30minutes-1hr.  Running can cause issues but I would just limit the run time. Biking should be fine as long as your not doing it insanely. Biking is really safe since its not constantly pounding lol.

Weightlifting: Dr. Bo shen has stated that J-pouchers should not lift anything over 25pounds. A lot of people here do not follow that despite that advice from a doctor but the choice is ours, its not worth the risk to me though.

@Steve L It’s probably best to find out what it is before speculating about what caused it or might make it worse. Have you got an appointment with your doctor?

Weightlifting doesn’t cause fistulas, though it can probably cause or worsen hemorrhoids if you are prone to them - good form would reduce the risk. Running or biking are great exercise for a J-poucher. I’d avoid things that directly irritate your painful area, so I wouldn’t allow it to press down on a bicycle seat, if its location would cause that.

Good luck!

What you describe sounds like a perianal abscess. It could definitely lead to a fistula.

Steve is correct that lifting or exercise did not cause this. I am not sure what Lauren is talking about, but exercise does not cause “abdominal issues”  and we are not “more fragile.” Straining and lifting improperly can lead to pouch prolapse and similar structural issues.

What is true is that once you have perianal fissures and abscesses, they tend to recur. You are doing the right thing with warm soaks. Once the abscess “ripens” it can be lanced and drained. At that point, relief will be immediate.

Jan