This topic is about someone who is 19 days into their recovery after a colostomy reversal surgery. They are experiencing some challenges and seeking advice and reassurance. Here's a summary of their situation and some helpful insights:

- The person is having 3 to 4 mostly-formed bowel movements each morning and is fully continent, although holding stool can be uncomfortable. They can pass gas without any accidents.

- They have experienced intermittent rectal bleeding, with bloody stools occurring twice daily over three consecutive days. Their surgeon has reassured them that light, intermittent bleeding is common during the healing process or could be due to pre-existing hemorrhoids. However, they should seek emergency care if they notice continuous bleeding or large clots.

- A new, painless bulge has appeared in the pubic area, which is not discolored. This swelling developed after the original stoma was created. The surgeon mentioned that this isn't typical for a reversal, so the person plans to see their primary-care physician for further evaluation.

- The person is feeling anxious but was comforted by the surgeon's explanations. They also wished everyone a happy Easter.

Additional information and advice:

- The person follows a vegetarian diet, mainly consisting of beans and vegetables. The bleeding started after they increased their dietary fiber. The surgeon advised them to continue adding fiber, noting that the bleeding might persist for several weeks.

- Regarding the pubic swelling, their primary-care physician suggested a "watch-and-wait" approach for a few months, attributing the swelling to the back-to-back surgeries and slower healing due to age, as long as there is no pain or discoloration.

Advice and insights:

1. Light rectal bleeding soon after a reversal is usually normal and is often due to surgical healing or irritation from hemorrhoids. It's important to keep doctors informed if there are any changes in the bleeding pattern.

2. Hemorrhoids, including those acquired during childbirth, can bleed more when dietary fiber is increased. This can mimic more serious issues and cause anxiety.

3. It's normal to feel anxious after seeing blood, especially for those with a history or risk of cancer. Scheduling a colonoscopy can be a wise step for reassurance and early detection.

4. Sudden swelling in the pubic or groin area may be due to postoperative lymphedema or other fluid buildup related to surgery. It's important to monitor for any pain, discoloration, or growth and seek further medical advice if changes occur.