This topic is about someone sharing their recovery journey nine days after having a colostomy reversal surgery. They are adjusting to life back at home and managing the changes in their body. Here are some insights and advice based on their experience:

- The post-surgical pain is minimal and can be managed with Tylenol. However, there is significant itching from the abdominal staples, which are due to be removed soon.
- Bowel movements are happening in clusters throughout the day—morning, midday, and bedtime. While the urgency feels normal, there are occasional repeat trips to the bathroom within a short time.
- Perianal soreness is improving, but gentle wiping is still necessary.
- Mobility is good as long as there is no deep bending, and it feels much easier compared to the period right after the original colostomy surgery.
- The goal is to reduce bowel movements to one or two times a day, though having only half of the original colon might mean not returning to the pre-illness pattern.
- There is a love for long, spontaneous road trips in a small car, and the hope is to resume these by spring, making reliable continence important.
- A weekend spa getaway is planned once recovery progresses further.
- Currently, a low-fiber, post-surgery diet is being followed. Stools are slowly firming, with the expectation of having both good and bad days.

Additional observations include:

- Gas is starting to separate from stool, making flatulence more comfortable, which is a positive development.
- A short drive to a local store for ice cream was a way to celebrate progress.

Some advice and insights for others in a similar situation:

1. Even if you feel good, take it easy. Internal tissues may still be healing even after external pain has lessened.
2. Itching from staples is common. Some people choose to remove them a few days early for relief, but only do this if you feel confident and can monitor the site closely. Many prefer to wait for their surgeon.
3. Bathroom frequency of 4–5 trips per day, with a second trip shortly after the first, is normal for some people even a year after reversal. Be patient as your system adjusts.
4. Keep a food diary to identify triggers. Foods like pizza can cause rapid output and make gas less predictable. Adjust your intake of known triggers to reduce extra bathroom trips.