APR experiences. How long before I'm sitting comfortably?

Hello Alison

I haven't had an APR but I have been left with extremely sensitive fragile nether regions following radiotherapy (not in the same league as your op, I don't want to downplay that) but I have found the honeycomb cushion invaluable.  I have Googled it and it comes up on lots of sites and will undoubtedly be available downunder!

However, I am hoping those with more APR experience than me will pick up on your question and help.

Irene xx

Thanks Irene.
I found the initial cancer left me with really sensitive nether regions that settled down quite soon after radiotherapy was done.  The hospital OT did provide a thick foam pad with chunks cut out of the middle which helped a bit.  (And I kept it covered with a scarf because it didn't exactly look dignified, not that I'm vain or anything, lol.)  

I already have a cushion on my recliner that I think is a honeycomb cushion, because I spend a lot of time there on account of assorted other health issues.  It's good but I'm not sure it will be good enough. 

Alison. x

Hi Alison, I had an APR last June. Initially for a few weeks post surgery it's lying on your side or standing. Then you start with sitting one sided and changing frequently  

Then I was lent an inflatable cushion through the NHS and gradually started sitting normally, starting at 2 minutes at a time and building up.

I now sit normally for as long as I want. I just have a honeycomb cushion for long car journeys or wooden benches!

I swim, go to gym classes and travel and crochet everywhere! I even did it lying on my side. Keep those needles flying! Good luck

That's really good to know, thanks so much for replying.  

I suspect I'll be knitting standing up! 

Hi Alison, 

I am coming up to 2 months post APR & I can only just sit reasonably normally. I still need to lie down in the evenings and occasionally in the day if i’ve over done it. 

Everyone heals differently so you may heal faster but I still have 2 open wounds that need to be dressed daily. Eat lots of protein based foods to with healing. 

Be kind to yourself and don’t rush yourself. The stomach takes some time to process too. 

Abbi

Thanks Abbi.  It's going to be a long haul!

Amazing to hear you’ve recovered so well PalomaStoma7c9c00 , I love when members of this community such as yourself offer such encouragement to others especially when they’re facing something as daunting as this surgery so thank you. 

Nicola 

Thank you Nikki65.

It felt like it took a long time to heal but when I look back it wasn't.

It's important to know you can establish a new normal for yourself, and get back to enjoying life