Getting There Slowly

My anti-swelling and antibiotics medication ran out a few days ago, and I stopped the painkillers at the same time (on the hunch that they probably weren't doing much and because I prefer the less-is-better approach when it comes to medication). The day immediately after was a bit more uncomfortable - noticeably more painful in the morning, but certainly bearable, so I've stayed off them. That means no more medication whatsoever, which is a nice milestone.

I've also discovered that I can sit somewhat comfortably on our couches even without the rubber donut if I pull my legs up under me. Works for me!

And what's more? Being back on hormones for three weeks has meant a return of the vibrancy and tactile quality to the world which I'm just loving - it's like the return of an old friend. It sort of snuck up gradually on me over that period too, rather than being the sudden change I'd expected (since that's what happened when I went on HRT for the very first time). Some of the physical changes which had reversed after I'd stopped hormones have returned too. Very pleasing!

Swelling of the surgical area has greatly improved in the last two days, to the point where I'm realising my reference point for measuring depth while dilating has changed (meaning my apparent depth if I use the same - now un-swelled - spot for measuring is now slightly reduced). Essentially no bleeding - the pads are coming away clean apart from Betadine and Dermazin, which means I'm sleeping without a sanitary sheet now. Yet another thing down!

Can you tell I'm a progress-oriented type? :P

Dilation is becoming a bit more difficult, however. I'm still reaching 6.5 inches with the medium, and moving successfully to the large, but there's a stiffness or tightness creeping in which wasn't there before, so I suspect scar tissue contraction has begun. Just before we left Thailand, Dr Suporn did tell me that my graft healing has been quite rapid, but that rapid tissue healing also generally entails rapid scar contraction (supposedly this is more typical in Asians), which matches what I'm experiencing. I'm glad I have the time off to be able to do three dilations a day for now.