This is just a positive message for those who are planning on utilizing a J-pouch in the future.
I had my surgery exactly 2 weeks ago. I was in the hospital for 2 days and back at home/work now. I had 2 small issues so far. One day of bad gas and continued soreness in my rectum from using the bathroom again. The gas went away with lots of walking, gas-ex and fluids. For the soreness I am using desitin and Vaseline which have worked relatively well. I only have a small amount of pain during the actual BM's, not before or after.
Let me just say, I absolutely love not having a bag. It feels so freeing. Yes, there is the fear of an "accident" but so far so good. Not one, not even in the middle of the night. Though sometimes if I need to pass gas I'm nervous I might release some waste but so far, not the case. I've been averaging 8-10 BM's a day BUT I have control... as we all know, control is so essential. If I feel the need to go but can't, it causes a little stomach discomfort but I don't have to rush to the bathroom. In fact the other day I was out, felt the need to go and didn't return home for an hour and was FINE.
It's only been 2 weeks but my wife and I just planned a trip to the Caribbean for December. I can't wait to be outside with my shirt off... I realize I will have setbacks, bad days etc. But so far I absolutely love my choice and J-pouch.
Seth, 32 years old
4/5/11- Diagnosed with UC
Tried all diets/medications
6/4/13 -Full colectomy with ileostomy/J pouch
9/20/13- Takedown and using J pouch
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