Mary,
I think it would be great to do a sphincter test so you will know what's ahead, and hopefully be reassured. My take down was in March. I had leakage the whole time with loop ileostomy, though it was lots of mucous, bile and stool. I, too, was worried that I would leak after takedown, but my surgeon assured me that it would not. Digital exam showed him that my muscle was tight enough. Sure enough, I am continent, even when my output is all liquid! That said, it was a process, not immediate after takedown. I have worked with my nurse to tweak meds (Imodium and Lomotil to slow things, Colestipol to help with acidy output, Metamucil). I am just recovering from a month long bout of cuffitis, during which time I did have some leakage. I do always tuck 2 squares TP, trifolded, up there or Target's oval cosmetic pads, about 2.5"round. This makes me feel more confident and only occasionally do I have enough leakage to soil the mini pads I always wesr. I use Calmoseotine or Vaseline to keep area protected for next BM, so TP/ cosmetic pad keeps that from making mess. A warning though, nighttime is still a challenge, so I set alarm for every 2.5-3.5 hours so I get up and empty. I sometimes wake up to go, but when I'm in deep sleep in early morning hours I do not wake up. Emptying part way through night has helped me avoid soiling myself at night. I hope your road after takedown is smooth, but even with all the challenges I have no regrets and have had so many more good days than bad. Positive vibes your way! I know everyone on this site will continue to help you through this process!
Laurie