When someone undergoes an ileostomy reversal and no longer has a colon, it can be a bit of a journey to understand what life will be like afterward. If you're in this situation, you might be curious about how your body will adjust, especially in terms of bowel movements, fatigue, weight changes, and other potential issues.

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

1. Some people choose not to have a reversal if their colon has been removed. Without a colon, stools can be very acidic and watery, which might lead to frequent bathroom visits and perianal rashes.

2. Experiences after reversal can vary greatly. For instance, one person shared that 10 months post-surgery, they experienced:
- 10 to 20 bowel movements per day
- Intense anal pain and anal fissures, which they described as feeling like passing shards of glass

3. To help manage these challenges, here are some practical tips for skin care and comfort:
- Use a handheld bidet to rinse after each bowel movement, and then gently dab the area dry.
- Apply Vaseline (petroleum jelly) around the anus before and after bowel movements to create a protective barrier.
- Take frequent warm-to-hot baths with Epsom salts and coconut oil, but avoid using soap during these soaks to reduce irritation.

These insights might help you prepare for what to expect and how to care for yourself after an ileostomy reversal.