My name is Jennifer – I am in my early 20s and also recently had to have j-pouch surgery due to FAP. I read a few of your earlier entries to prepare for my surgery. They were extremely helpful and made me not so lost and alone! Thank you so much!!

It’s has only been about a month and half since my surgery, but I feel much better than I thought I would at this juncture in time. Like Ricardo, I have noticed that certain foods do tend to increase my trips to the bathroom. As of right now, on “bad” day I use the restroom about 5-6 times during a 24 hour period. On a good day, it can be around 2-3 times a day. Some things that have helped me noticeably with butt burn was been taking Immodium (over the counter) and Immotil (prescription) and Metamucil. After talking to my doctor around two weeks after the surgery about the frequency of my bowel movements, he suggested that I start taking fiber to help thicken my stool (which will in turn also help to reduce the frequency of movements and any associated burn). Meanwhile the Immodium helps to slow down how quickly food moves through my system. My doctor advised me that my body may get used to the Immodium and its effectiveness could wear off. As a result, he suggested that I alternate between the Immodium and Immotil every few months to keep things as consistent as possible. I hardly have any butt burn right now. If I do, I use Calmoseptine ointment. It helps immensely with the uncomfortable burning sensations (although it can sting when applied initially). It was a must have right after the surgery. Now, I only use it very rarely.

I hope the info I provided helps! I’m happy to hear that you and Ricardo are doing so well – keep it up! Jennifer.