This topic is about dealing with severe soreness after having the rectum completely removed, a procedure that can be necessary for people with conditions like Crohn’s disease. The person sharing their experience had their large intestine removed three years ago, and recently, the remaining rectum was surgically taken out. They are now recovering at home, dealing with a very painful and raw area, and are looking for ways to manage the soreness without relying on painkillers.

Here are some helpful insights and advice from others who have been through similar experiences:

1. Healing times can vary greatly. Some people have taken 12 to 15 months to sit comfortably and stop experiencing leakage, while others have healed in just 1 to 2 months. It's important to be patient and understand that everyone heals at their own pace.

2. When it comes to seating and posture:
- Try to avoid putting pressure on the area as much as possible.
- Experiment with different chairs to find one that you can tolerate, even if it's just for a short period.
- Donut cushions might not be helpful and can sometimes increase pain.
- Some people find that gentle pressure can be soothing, but this varies from person to person.

3. For topical relief and dressings:
- Prescription numbing ointments can help reduce pain.
- Medicated styrofoam dressings provided by hospitals have been beneficial for some in aiding wound healing.

4. Cleaning the area:
- Once your surgeon gives the go-ahead, use a hand-held shower spray to gently rinse the area. Avoid using washcloths or vigorous wiping.
- Keep the area clean but try not to disturb it too much, as minimal handling can promote healing.

5. If oral pain medications make you feel nauseous, consider relying more on topical numbing agents and finding comfortable positions to relieve pain.

6. It's crucial to follow all instructions from your surgeon or nurse closely. You might experience phantom sensations, like the urge to go to the bathroom, as your nerves recover. These sensations usually diminish over time.