ok so I had U.C., had surgery steps 1 and 2, so now I'm all hooked back up and I STILL have to go to the bathroom soooo often! I try to watch what I eat but when I'm out in public, its soo embarrassing and uncomfortable! I'm getting up at least 3 to 4 times a night also. I have tried imodium and it hasn't really done anything. does anyone know why this might be or what I can do?? thank you!

you don't say when you had your final surgery but keep in mind it takes time... at least a year for many.

My final surgery was 11 months ago and I am doing better in the 'bathroom dept' now than I even was 2 months ago. I take imodium (5-6/day), eat fibre, eat lots of yogurt, pitas and apple sauce. I wake up twice a night now. Try not to eat too late.

Also remember that your body will need some time to practice 'holding it'. You may think you feel a need to go but it's just a gas bubble and will subside usually if you can wait. You will start to recognize the difference.

Hang in there... it should get easier as you get to know your new plumbing system better!

oh my last surgery was in sept '07, wow I didn't know it might take to a year, my surgeon never said. they just told me life should be "easy" to get back to. thank you for your help!

Yeah- that's what they say, because they've never personally gone through it.

It's DEFINITELY easier than living with UC through a flare, that's for sure!

For me, it's been very similar to life with angry UC, except way more manageable- I never got to that 'sweet-spot' like so many have, but I've gotten a taste.

I've given it 2.5+ years, and tried everything, except the nasty meds used to treat Crohn's, which I'm not willing to take.

As a result, I scheduled my j-pouch reversal surgery yesterday for this 3/11, and am going back to a permanent ileostomy.

I can't wait to get my life back...

Good luck!
//Todd

Heck yeah...your still healing. You need to give it way more time. My biggest adjustment was no sugar. I had a ho ho mint mocha yesterday, within 3 hours, had nothing but liquid stool. You go way less when your stool is solid. I was on about 8 Immodiums and Metamucil fiber wafers with each meal when I was the stage you are. Don't think you will always have to take that stuff. I'm completely off both now. Although I am on long term antibiotics for antibiotic-resistent pouchtitis. Good luck...things will get better! Give it some more time.