So, anyway, I'm about 5 months post-op (my surgery was June 9th) and I'm still having problems and it seems to be getting worse. 2-3 months post up things seemed fine, and I had no paid and not as bad with problems with leaking. Now, I just full on leak if I move too much, bend over, or lift anything. And pain wise, it's been getting worse (I'm taking pain killers again).
My local family doctor just shrugged his shoulders and didn't know what to do or what to check or test.
It's gotten so bad that I can't lift anything at work (as required by my job) and I'm actually taking time off work at the end of the week until things get figured out.
I keep trying to do kegals, but they don't seem to do much. Things seem pretty swollen inside, so dilating has become pretty painful. And, yep, no sex for me anymore... it's just too painful now (wasn't a couple of months ago).
I think I'm going to call Montreal again. I called about the Peeing thing a while ago... a little over a month ago, and Brassard mentioned the kegals. But then, I didn't have as much pain.
I'm not sure if it's just because I lift stuff a lot putting orders away at work, etc. Thus, I've been trying to rest not, not lift stuff, not move too dramatically, etc. I find that prevents the full-on leaking (it's embarrassing to pee your pants -- it's just not a little dribble, it can be a lot, or just a little but constantly). The pain is still there, although worse if I lift anything -- even a gallon of milk!
Has anyone else experienced this before? I'm hoping it will go away with rest, and hopefully I wont end up having surgery again. But I'm not sure if I'd go to Brassard for that, or some local surgeon (who may or may not know what to do, depending on what's wrong, if I can actually find a doctor who will figure out what exactly is wrong and where... getting the I don't know treatment doesn't help much).
Thnx for any advice,
--natalie
I'd talk to Ann, Suzanne and Brassard first (again), since they should know the most about what's going on, and perhaps will fix things without charging a fee?
From what I understand, the op doesn't really mess with the parts/muscles that control flow. But I'd theorize that if you have swelling inside as you said, it could be interfering with things perhaps?
~Kate~
hi hon. well, you're still early to be doing that much lifting and straining. i'd get back with my surgeon and ask those questions. something isn't right and better to find out what it is and fix it as soon as possible. your md isn't on the ball, this ain't a shoulder shugging thing. i got myself a gynecologist as soon as i got home and she's been a lot of help with understanding and teaching me things that i didn't learn growing up. do it soon. God bless with...
I was thinking about this for a bit, and to be honest, I can't think of any reason for this to be happening. If it were a damaged/atrophied muscle, it should have gotten better after kegal exercises. My best guess is that it sounds to me like an intramuscular bacterial (or virus) infection of some sort. I can only recommend seeing an OB/GYN or urologist about it soon.
Ditto on the OB or a Urologist. You might have an infection. I was in serious pain about 6 weeks after, went to the ER, They thought it might be a bladder infection, and gave me anibiotics. The test came back negitive the next day, but the Antibiotics did the trick anyway.
Girl get yourself to a doctor now and have some blood work done. You should not be having that kind of trouble now. As to the tests gee, standard bloodwork up and urinalisys. maybe find an OB GYM.
take care of yourself girl
Beni
yeah, trying to figure out the doctor thing, and someone that I can see soon -- rather than waiting three months to see. :( And some other places won't take trans people. There's one GYN that I know of that will take trans people, but it's a 3-5 month wait list to see her. Most specialists take a long time to see. Same with a urologist, it takes a few months to get in.
I'm not sure why, but I also keep bleeding down there. It wasn't much at first, but recently it's been more common. *shrugs* I don't know is a clue or not.
--nat
HI,
I really wouldn't wait around. I understand there is a waiting list, but that sounds like an awful long time to have to wait. Maybe you can try to arrange for one of these doctors to call you the moment someone else cancels an appointment.
Or, and I know this is scary - hit an emergency room and don't take no for an answer. Bring a friend or relative to be there to make certain you are treated well.
Rebis
Hi Natalie,
I'm no medical expert but I would think blood this far along is not a good thing... I would seek
help now, not later. Don't try to "be strong" and tough this out. Go, today. Really.
Amanda
Quote from: gothique11 on October 29, 2008, 09:37:25 PM
I'm not sure why, but I also keep bleeding down there. It wasn't much at first, but recently it's been more common. *shrugs* I don't know is a clue or not.
Inside or outside?
I've read that there are sometimes "areas of delayed healing" that can be treated with Silver Nitrate(?) I believe. If your normal doctor doesn't feel confident or comfortable figuring out what's up, I'm pretty sure Brassard would be willing to talk to him/her and offer guidance about what to look for and do. In any case, his office should be able to offer some advice as to what it might be, the urgency for treatment, etc.
Kate
Quote from: Always Amanda on October 30, 2008, 09:54:29 AM
Hi Natalie,
I'm no medical expert but I would think blood this far along is not a good thing... I would seek
help now, not later. Don't try to "be strong" and tough this out. Go, today. Really.
Amanda
What she said sweetie this is very, VERY serious
QuoteI've read that there are sometimes "areas of delayed healing" that can be treated with Silver Nitrate(?) I believe. If your normal doctor doesn't feel confident or comfortable figuring out what's up, I'm pretty sure Brassard would be willing to talk to him/her and offer guidance about what to look for and do. In any case, his office should be able to offer some advice as to what it might be, the urgency for treatment, etc.
Coming from someone who has been though SRS recently it sounds like you may be saying this might not
be a big deal. But to me who has not been through it and is a big scardy cat anyway it freaks me out that there
is bleeding this long after a procedure. But maybe it's normal? How long does it normally take to heal?
Amanda
Natalie,
I would certainly call Brassard and, if possible, get back up there. This is just not right. There has to be something out of the ordinary here, and the surgeon who operated would seem to be the best one to look at it.
You will be in my heart and prayers!
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fganjataz.com%2F01smileys%2Fimages%2Fsmileys%2FloopyBlonde-blinking.gif&hash=4545ddf8251cf9c32ae6074d56e48bc34a755857)Kristi
Quote from: Always Amanda on October 30, 2008, 01:18:23 PM
QuoteI've read that there are sometimes "areas of delayed healing" that can be treated with Silver Nitrate(?) I believe. If your normal doctor doesn't feel confident or comfortable figuring out what's up, I'm pretty sure Brassard would be willing to talk to him/her and offer guidance about what to look for and do. In any case, his office should be able to offer some advice as to what it might be, the urgency for treatment, etc.
Coming from someone who has been though SRS recently it sounds like you may be saying this might not be a big deal.
I definately don't want to imply that... she really needs to pursue this to figure out what's going on.
BUT, I have met and talked with a few postops who still had some bleeding months afterward. It's not uncommon, but it IS something that *must* be addressed.
QuoteBut maybe it's normal? How long does it normally take to heal?
From what my literature said, bleeding should stop within a few weeks to a month. Still, my papers say things aren't really considered "healed" for an entire year. And swelling can take months and months to really resolve, etc.
Kate
I see, thanks Kate... I'll stop freaking out now :)
Amanda
Get help: PRONTO! I had surgery back in May, and I haven't had anything like what you're experiencing. Please be careful though; I'm sure you're well aware that there are plenty of trans-unfriendly gynos out there, so if you do go to one, make sure that they're caring and will actually help you rather than just making things worse. There are also gynos out there who are perfectly nice and would try to help you, but might just screw things up because of their unfamiliarity with the procedures we've had and the resulting differences in internal anatomy.
Please get help! And keep us informed, of course :)
Lia
I'm with the people who are urging you to get help stat, Natalie. This is not normal at all, especially the pain thing after months of being post-op. I would call the cute doctor with the French accent straight away again and again.
tink :icon_chick:
Ok, the blood thing comcerns me. Is it spotting or true bleeding?
I had surgery with Dr Brassard in late January. By early April I was feeling fine. In mid-April I was getting increased pain, from my belly button right down to the base of my crotch. Everything was sensitive to the touch. Even the slightest touch hurt. Wearing underwear hurt. On Thursday I e-mailed Suzanne at Dr Brassards office with my exact symptoms. Friday morning I felt a UTI coming on. Anything I did, led to a strong urge to pee. Friday afternoon, Dr Brassard called me back. He asked two questions and said I had "such-a-such" infection (I forget the actual name) and he had me get a prescription for Cipro from my primary care physician. He said between 48-72 hours I would be feeling better.
Sure enough, within eight hours the UTI pain subsided. Approximately 58-60 hours later I was sitting at work and it dawned on me........I had felt ZERO discomfort at all. He diagnosed my problem with one short e-mail and two questions via the phone.
In other words, get in touch with him, it's p[robably something very simple. But I, like you, got very very nervous. Five pills and two and a half days later, I was feeling fine.
I'm with Kristi!
Quote from: Kristi on October 30, 2008, 01:21:23 PM
Natalie,
I would certainly call Brassard and, if possible, get back up there. This is just not right. There has to be something out of the ordinary here, and the surgeon who operated would seem to be the best one to look at it.
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fganjataz.com%2F01smileys%2Fimages%2Fsmileys%2FloopyBlonde-blinking.gif&hash=4545ddf8251cf9c32ae6074d56e48bc34a755857)Kristi
I'm 4 months post-op & I get some spotting occasionally but nothing to be freaked out about & I have no pain. Have you got a fever? It sounds like an infection but maybe I'm making a big deal out of nothing at all.
In terms of seeking an OB/GYN who is trans friendly, we are not the only one's who have this kind of surgery. Girls with Vaginal Agenesis also suffer the same plight as us. The only exception in their case is that they don't have scrotal and penial skin to donate to the neovagina. However, they do have skin grafts. Internally, they have the same thing done that we do. It's called The McIndoe procedure.
Aside from getting immediate medical attention for the bleeding that you are encountering, seek out a physican that specializes in vaginal agenesis. Chances are they will have better understanding than those who have never encounter a case such as our own case. There is still the chance that some will be transpobic. However, you just have to keep looking and asking the right questions.
As an intersexed transsexual woman, I've already began calling around to physician's and I ask two question when I speak with them. (1) Do they have experience with intersexed women and (2) do they have experience with women with vaginal agenesis. I happen to be in a position where my surgeon is here in the U.S. and if I encounter problems, I can reach him real easy and I happen to live in a state where there is a few SRS physician's. I've called one SRS physician and ask to become a patient on any follow-up emergency cases. I'm also playing on setting aside enough money that if I need to fly down to my physician who performs my vaginoplasty, I can do so. A flight there and back can be had for a little as $200. Hotel can be as cheap as $65 to $75 per day.
I hope this helps. I have been reading more and more stories of girls having problems with getting proper medical treatment because transpohbia. One of my ex-friends has told me that she can't even get HRT as a post-op because all the doctors she has called and talked with has told her they don't want to take her case on. In my opinion, this is discrimination. As post-op females, you are no different than a woman who has vaginal agenesis (outside of chromosomes) or a woman who has had a hysterectomy. These doctors should be ashamed of themselves. Keep searching and keep asking the questions. I'm sure that at some point you will find a physcian that will be more than willing to take on your case. In the meantime, make sure you take care of that pain and bleeding as soon as possible.
Jasmine
Any updates on this, Natalie?
~Kate~
Dr. Brassard got back to me, and because he can't inspect me he doesn't know what's going on if he can't inspect me.
My family doctor here believes that giving me lots of pain killers is the solution -- although, I don't like it. It creeps me out that I can take 4 T3's, walk to work, and not feel high or anything. I have to take six of them before things start to level off pain wise and get that stoned feeling (LOL). At this moment, I just have been cutting the pain killers down and living with the pain since I really don't like the idea of being an addict and constantly having to up my dose to get pain relief. I've cut it down to almost nothing, but it means cramping over lots.
After bugging my doctor for a month, he finally put a rec in for an ultra sound for the end of the month. So, I don't know if that will come up with anything or not.
He's supposed to put in a rec for a urologist, but that hasn't happened yet.
He's good for getting hormones, but for other things he seems to not know what to do.
As for the bleeding, it's on and off. I hasn't been happening as much recently, or is just spotting. I still keep getting swelling above my public bone, on either side (sometimes right, sometimes left, sometimes both, and sometimes feels like it's in the center at the same time). It hurts. Some days the swelling gets as hard as a rock.
Hopefully the ultra sound comes up with something.
The weird thing is that this is similar to pain I had earlier in the year, that lasted three months and I went from doctor to doctor with very little help because they'd say it's one thing, but upon saying I'm trans they'd say it's impossible and nothing would get done. *shrugs* That was post-op. Although, at the time, I didn't have the bladder issues.
The bladder issues seem to be connected to any pressure being put on my bladder -- lots of moving, lifting, standing for a long time, bending over lots, coughing, sneezing, etc. So, for that I keep doing the kegel exercises. No improvement at the moment, and has gotten worse as the pain + swelling has gotten worse.
So, I don't really know what to do. A few people in town have suggested specialist that might help, but it's a long wait -- months and months and months and months. And I also would have to get a rec to see the specialists. Just to get an ultra sound it's becoming almost a months wait.
This hasn't been constant since surgery, however. 2 months after surgery I didn't have much bladder problems at all. It's only gotten bad in the last couple of months, and this month it's been killer.
My doc has tested my urine several times, but it comes back negative for infections. It's an interesting experience to learn to pee into a cup. LOL
I've just had the normal blood tests, etc, which come back with nothing out of the ordinary except really, really high levels of estrogen (abt 2500-ish, and normal should be a lot lower than that, like between 200-500). I'm on a low-dose of estrace, not even keeping it under my tongue anymore, I just swallow -- and usually end up forgetting and missing doses. I haven't found anyone who's had comparable levels... with the high levels I do experience feeling dizzy from time to time, but my thyroid seems to be fine. The doc just says it's weird. Same thing he said last time, pre-op when I got the pain and my levels went from 1000 (no pain) to 1900 with pain and swelling; no change in medication or routine. T levels are the same post-op as they were pre-op, really low, at 0.5. Pretty much off the register. Pre-op, of course, I took a low-dose of spiro, and post op I don't take any spiro.
I'm also on anti-dizzy pills. I get dizzy from time to time and my immune system seems to still not be up to normal -- I'm taking tons of vitamins to avoid get sick at the moment. Other wise, I seem to get sick a lot. It's been happening for almost a year now.
So, anyway, hopefully the ultra sound comes up with something. I don't know what's swelling inside of me, and why it seems to be getting worse -- but I really think what ever is swelling up so much is pushing on my bladder and causing those kinds of problems. As for the random bleeding, I don't know why that is happening, but I know it comes from the very back of my vaginal canal. The very back of my vaginal canal doesn't hurt to the touch, but any slightest pressure and it really hurts. It makes dilating painful if I put the slightest pressure -- and no pressure means I have lost some depth. Girth is no issue for me.
I've talked to a lot of people, and this problem isn't common. Brassard doesn't even seem sure what's going on. No body I talked to, ever, has had the same stuff going on.
I'm starting to get used to doctors saying I'm "weird" and not sure what to do, or test. I think I should have the CT scan, although. Even when I got my last ultra sound the tek said, and recommended to my doc that I get a CT scan. That was in March. I don't know if the two are related. And, it could be a number of things going on -- any form of tissue could be swelling down there. It would be just nice to know what the problem is, and go from there. I'm not going to assume much until things get more pin-pointed.
The said thing is, if I were 100% biologically a woman, I would have been tested more. It sux to go to a doctor, explain the problems, have them tell me what they think it most-likely is, based on the symptoms -- and then explaining that I'm trans and having them go, "um, ur....I don't know." And then they get all weird on me 'cause I'm not in their text books.
And the thing is, I don't know how much is related to surgery or not. I felt great after two months of surgery. No pain. No pain killers. Very few accidents, if any. And now, accidents and pain is a daily thing. So, it's a very confusing thing -- and I'm not even sure what can be done about it.
Anyway, I'll keep people updated. I just wanna be fixed. This just bites and with it getting worse, it sux. I feel disabled. I have bawled over this a lot, even at work when the pain get so bad that I faint, and I'm constantly changing my pads. I have a girl friend, but now I've gotten to the point that I can't be intimate with her with my girly parts. And yes, I could have sex before, no problems, but now any pressure down there sends a wave of pain, and leaks. It's affected my life a lot, personal, relationships, and at my job. And all I want is to know what it is, get it fixed, and live my life normally. Pain killers just band-aid it -- I'd pick being fixed and having a normal life over being stoned off pain killers any day.
--natalie
I know this might seem so obvious as to be a stupid question, but have you been tested for infections? I've had a couple since SRS (tinea cruris, absolutely lovely), and they caused substantial pain and labia swelling. My infections were more of the superficial variety, only affecting the outer labia really, but I imagine that if they had been internal I would have experienced some of the symptoms you're talking about.
Lia
my doc has gotten to me to pee in a cup several times. And won't go further than that -- he won't even look down there, believe it or not!
Quote from: gothique11 on November 15, 2008, 07:33:26 PM
he won't even look down there, believe it or not!
WHAT?!?!?!?!
Your doctor won't even examine you?
Good Lord. There are plenty of infections that you might have that might not show up in a urine test. For example, an infection inside of the vaginal canal (which you seem to be experiencing) that's causing pressure on other internal areas would not necessarily show up in a urine exam, since what's going on in the bladder and the urethra is not the same as inside the vagina proper.
Can you not get yourself to a gyno (or is your doc one)?
Lia
Quote from: gothique11 on November 15, 2008, 07:33:26 PM
he won't even look down there, believe it or not!
O_O
Geez. I don't know how it works in Canada, but in the UK every region's public health is governed by a PCT - Primary Care Trust. They have a customer help line that you can phone to get help if your local GP is unable or unwilling to help. (Since you have to use the doctor(s) assigned to your immediate area) Is there not a similar mechanism you can follow over there, 'cause honey, this sounds really, really bad.
~Simone.
Quote from: gothique11 on November 15, 2008, 07:33:26 PM
my doc has gotten to me to pee in a cup several times. And won't go further than that -- he won't even look down there, believe it or not!
omg natalie i hate to say this but i think it,s time to see a different doctor or a gyno!! or someone who is going to help you ::)
I'm with the other girls on this.... do something now on seeing a new doctor or clinic asap ! you could be in the making of some seriously danger here. Please ......
gina
Or go to the hospital ER. You really need to do something and I mean TODAY. It has been going on to long.
I agree with Janet. You should go to the ER.
Quote from: gothique11 on November 15, 2008, 07:33:26 PM
my doc has gotten to me to pee in a cup several times. And won't go further than that -- he won't even look down there, believe it or not!
Then he should be your ex-doc.
Is there any way you could possibly get back to Montreal?
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Quote from: Kristi on November 17, 2008, 07:24:56 AM
Is there any way you could possibly get back to Montreal?
That's what I'm wondering. That's the best thing to do I'd think... have Brassard look at things. Although I realize that's not the easiest thing to organize.
Not to get too personal - and no need to answer - but did you need an additional graft? I'm wondering if that sutured area might be causing the problems...
~Kate~
UTI urinary tract infections do hurt and when you pee they are worse and then you can't hold your pee so a lot comes out.
stay away from sex and dirty stuff which causes more infections..
i use to get them just from not bathing daily. Use a tub and bleach in the water diluted of course.
take some antibiotics for your UTI keep it clean change underware.. heal
Quote from: postoplesbian on November 17, 2008, 05:29:25 PM
UTI urinary tract infections do hurt and when you pee they are worse and then you can't hold your pee so a lot comes out.
Well if her doc has done urine tests then UTI has already been ruled out.
Lia
Natalie, who is your GP? I'm familiar with most of the trans-friendly GPs in our city and if you're going to one of them, I'm shocked he won't examine you. If you respond, please IM privately if names are involved.
And yes, I absolutely agree you should go to a hospital ASAP. I'd avoid the Rockyview as they seem pretty transphobic when I was there last - Peter Lougheed seems pretty good though.
Hope you get some resolution soon. :(
ClaireR
Sorry to intrude on your post but open up the phone book and start looking for a different doctor. I will write more later needless to say that you can find a better one. You probably need emergency care, there are good hospitals in Alberta.
->-bleeped-<-boy
Quote from: postoplesbian on November 17, 2008, 05:29:25 PM
UTI urinary tract infections do hurt and when you pee they are worse and then you can't hold your pee so a lot comes out.
stay away from sex and dirty stuff which causes more infections..
i use to get them just from not bathing daily. Use a tub and bleach in the water diluted of course.
take some antibiotics for your UTI keep it clean change underware.. heal
Is bleach a good idea? There are probably soaps and such made for this purpose.
Quote from: Rebis on November 19, 2008, 08:00:41 AM
Quote from: postoplesbian on November 17, 2008, 05:29:25 PM
UTI urinary tract infections do hurt and when you pee they are worse and then you can't hold your pee so a lot comes out.
stay away from sex and dirty stuff which causes more infections..
i use to get them just from not bathing daily. Use a tub and bleach in the water diluted of course.
take some antibiotics for your UTI keep it clean change underware.. heal
Is bleach a good idea? There are probably soaps and such made for this purpose.
Not likely (I am not aware of any medical applications for bleach)
Perhaps hydrogen peroxide and a plain water wash afterwards. (Just a idea of mine to be taken at face value)
While ph balanced, vaginal cleaning products probably won't work very well in this case.
From your initial post upthread and the symptoms, my first thought was a
UTI as many of the other women have suggested.
I've had a few UTIs, and there is a frequent and unexpected need to
urinate, with a great deal of accompanying pelvic pain. And when I did
urinate it was like I was 'pissing razor blades', if you will pardon my
franscaise. :o
The good news is the my most recent bout was taken care of with a 4
day regimen of Sulfamethoxazole (generic name), Gantanol (brand name).
Bottom line, you need medical attention 'stat'
I'm wondering if anyone has seen or heard from Natalie since all of this, she has not logged on lately.
I hope she is okay.
I was wondering the same thing. She posted a short vid at Youtube a few weeks or so ago, but all she mentioned was that she'd been healing pretty well, so hopefully things are clearing up.
Her channel is at:
http://www.youtube.com/user/gothique11 (http://www.youtube.com/user/gothique11)
~Simone.
I watch it and she seems OK. But no mention of her health. I am hoping she is OK. Her pain and urinary problem could be a major problem.
Janet
Oh, yeah, I guess I should up date.
Not so much pain at the moment. Doc won't examine me, and I need a referral to a gyno, which he wouldn't give. I had an ultra sound of my bladder, and my bladder is supposed to be okay. it's extremely hard to find a doctor here, and I really haven't had much luck at the moment.
Not peeing myself as much since the pain and swelling has gone down in the last couple of weeks. I still do kegels, still have accidents although. It's depressing. Extremely depressing.
Quote from: ClaireR on November 18, 2008, 08:42:39 AM
Natalie, who is your GP? I'm familiar with most of the trans-friendly GPs in our city and if you're going to one of them, I'm shocked he won't examine you. If you respond, please IM privately if names are involved.
And yes, I absolutely agree you should go to a hospital ASAP. I'd avoid the Rockyview as they seem pretty transphobic when I was there last - Peter Lougheed seems pretty good though.
Hope you get some resolution soon. :(
ClaireR
I'm shocked, too. The doctor I'm seeing is trans friendly, and I've had a friend get a referral for the gyno from him, I've had other people looked at -- so, I don't know what's wrong with me. It's confused a lot of people that go there regularly.
He only suggests that I go to physio therapy, which is way over my budget, especially that I'm not sure if I'm going to have a home at the end of the month. *shrugs*
I really haven't updated 'cause I've been going through a lot. Lots of life problems. So, I haven't been online much. Mostly just living through stuff. Feeling lost and overwhelmed with a mix of on going health problems combined with some life issues. Very overwhelmed. I feel like ending it all some days.
Quote from: gothique11 on January 05, 2009, 06:27:46 AM
I really haven't updated 'cause I've been going through a lot. Lots of life problems. So, I haven't been online much. Mostly just living through stuff. Feeling lost and overwhelmed with a mix of on going health problems combined with some life issues. Very overwhelmed. I feel like ending it all some days.
:-\ Hugs sweetie. I hope 2009 treats you better than 2008 did.
Mina.
I hope things turn around for you soon. I know how it feels to have so many things go wrong at once. Please try not to get overwhelmed by it.
I wish you well.
Hang in there Girl. It's tough when the doctor will not send you to a GYN. Life issues can be tough too, but you have people here who care about you. So hang tough.
Beni
I so hope next year is better for you Natalie. We will all be thinking of you.
:icon_hug:
Alice
Quote from: gothique11 on January 05, 2009, 06:27:46 AM
I really haven't updated 'cause I've been going through a lot. Lots of life problems. So, I haven't been online much. Mostly just living through stuff. Feeling lost and overwhelmed with a mix of on going health problems combined with some life issues. Very overwhelmed. I feel like ending it all some days.
aw hon, please resolve to hang in there. and please keep us posted.
-ell
I've gotten into this thread quite late...
It would seem to that you have developed a very nasty infection, one that sounds very similar to the one I endured after my surgery. It was not pleasant and the pain was unbearable. The infection was my own fault, caused by my not looking after the post-op site properly and I decided to go to emergency at the hospital. They arranged for an OBGYN to attend and she in turn contacted brassard who walked her through a recommended course of treatment. They prescribed a massive dose of medication and it was cleared up within two weeks.
Are you in a position to go to the emerg of your local hospital???
That sounds like a good idea. Just hit the emergency room. I know it's a drag, but something must be done.
Well, I went to a walk-in doctor for a horrible throat infection that wasn't going away (it got to the point I couldn't swallow anymore) and he put me on antibiotics. Then, all of a sudden, my peeing problems vanished completely. No pain down there. And I've been bugging my regular doc for a while that maybe that was the issue, but no antibodies from him (I eventually got an ultra sound a month ago, but found nothing wrong with my bladder).
So, anyway, the antibodies seem to be working for the peeing issue really well -- my throat infection is also slowly going away. They put me on some hard core antibiotic of some sorts.
Other than that, I've been dealing with life issues -- and those are starting to resolve. Now, it looks like I'll have a place to live, which is good. It's not confirmed yet, but it looks really good.
Natalie,
I. for one. am glad you finally are getting help for the problem. It was worrying me that your health might be in grave danger. I would get a different doctor, that other one is a whack job. It sounds like you had ether a bladder infection or a vaginal infection.
Now that you have that being taken care of, I hope your daily life problems will be resolved soon.
Janet
Yay! So glad to heat that, Nat! Many of us have been so worried about you. Please keep us updated.
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I am glad to see things looking up for you. Good timing on that throat problem.
Yay for throat infections! :D
(LOL. Never thought I'd be saying that!)
Mina.
Brassard seems to have a reputation for resulting in UTIs early post surgery ...
I had my first UTI two weeks post op, and twice since, but GP prescribed antibiotics (Cyprofolaxin, etc.) did the trick.
Sounds like yours might have gotten right into the bladder, which can be nasty and present the pain and incontinence problems you're experiencing ?
It must really add to the post-op depression many of us experience.
Just think you need to find a decent doctor.
Hope things get better soon, I know they will ...
Laura x
Hi,
I vote for finding a different doctor. At least now you don't have to rush.
I hope the place comes thru for you.
Good luck.
Quote from: Laura Eva B on January 09, 2009, 10:21:32 PM
Brassard seems to have a reputation for resulting in UTIs early post surgery ...
I had my first UTI two weeks post op, and twice since, but GP prescribed antibiotics (Cyprofolaxin, etc.) did the trick.
Sounds like yours might have gotten right into the bladder, which can be nasty and present the pain and incontinence problems you're experiencing ?
It must really add to the post-op depression many of us experience.
Just think you need to find a decent doctor.
Hope things get better soon, I know they will ...
Laura x
should that thing really discourage me from having my srs by brassard??or is it sth usual to be expected as well in most docs??
what is the problem in his technique to result in UT infections??
Quote from: deniz on January 22, 2009, 09:32:55 AM
Quote from: Laura Eva B on January 09, 2009, 10:21:32 PM
Brassard seems to have a reputation for resulting in UTIs early post surgery ...
I had my first UTI two weeks post op, and twice since, but GP prescribed antibiotics (Cyprofolaxin, etc.) did the trick.
Sounds like yours might have gotten right into the bladder, which can be nasty and present the pain and incontinence problems you're experiencing ?
It must really add to the post-op depression many of us experience.
Just think you need to find a decent doctor.
Hope things get better soon, I know they will ...
Laura x
should that thing really discourage me from having my srs by brassard??or is it sth usual to be expected as well in most docs??
what is the problem in his technique to result in UT infections??
Yes interesting, Brassard is my choice, are we speculating here or can anyone shine light onto this vs any of the other top named surgeons?
Another consideration beyond, depth, look and feel?
Thank you
Hi,
Considering the original intent of this thread. It may be a good idea to start a new thread which discusses the following concerns/topics.
I think it is a very good topic for discussion.
I'll leave it up to you ladies to decide whether or not you'd like to do that.
Quote from: Ms Delgado on January 23, 2009, 03:10:49 PM
Quote from: deniz on January 22, 2009, 09:32:55 AM
Quote from: Laura Eva B on January 09, 2009, 10:21:32 PM
Brassard seems to have a reputation for resulting in UTIs early post surgery ...
I had my first UTI two weeks post op, and twice since, but GP prescribed antibiotics (Cyprofolaxin, etc.) did the trick.
Sounds like yours might have gotten right into the bladder, which can be nasty and present the pain and incontinence problems you're experiencing ?
It must really add to the post-op depression many of us experience.
Just think you need to find a decent doctor.
Hope things get better soon, I know they will ...
Laura x
should that thing really discourage me from having my srs by brassard??or is it sth usual to be expected as well in most docs??
what is the problem in his technique to result in UT infections??
Yes interesting, Brassard is my choice, are we speculating here or can anyone shine light onto this vs any of the other top named surgeons?
Another consideration beyond, depth, look and feel?
Thank you
Maybe a new thread / survey would be interesting ?
Brassard (when discussing my UTI) said it was a frequent post-op hazard, think he quoted incidence of a bit under 10%, caused by the difficulty of maintaining hygiene in those messy post op weeks.
And maybe Brassard positions the urethra closer to the vagina and anus, the natural position, and the outer labia fold in more.
But a UTI (Cystisis) is no big deal, so many women are plagued with them, just look on your pharmacy's shelves for non-prescription remedies. Sure it can come on agonisingly painfully, but once you take antibiotics symptoms go away within 24 hours.
As I say I've had two full blown UTIs since the post-op one, one brought on probably by sex messing fluids about, the other by dehydration and not peeing enough to keep the urethra clean.
Laura x
Oh my god gothique11! What you went through sounds really horrible. I sort of wish I had signed up earlier. Minocin me thinks is called is good for urinary tract infections. Sounds like you went through hell and some. Im glad your still alive! I cant believe that doc. refused to actually help you! What a bastard! All that pain. You can honestly now shove it to people who tell you they cant do something for you cause they are sick. The good thing is that you are still ALIVE!
Removed profanity. Please review the TOS (Rule #11) Thank you - Tink
Yeah, it sucked -- a lot. Physically I'm fine (I had an ultra sound). Although, there's another development in my health that's not related to surgery, but is related to my bladder problems. Now doctors think I have MS (multiple sclerosis), and bladder issues can be an early symptom (and with problems, come infections, which makes it worse). Now, there are other reasons why the docs think I might have MS, not just the bladder issues, namely, having numbness with legs/arms and sometimes pain, fatigue, and the big clue was my balance/coordination going all funky, and of this last week, my ability to walk has greatly decreased. I'm still waiting for an MRI, which sux, but I had two doctor opinions on this, and waiting for a third from a Neurologist.
Basically, they've been going over various symptoms I've had over the last year or two, and connecting the dots with various possible on-set symptoms. And bladder issues is a symptom, apparently, and I could have gotten in a bad cycle of leaking which caused humidity, which caused infections, which made it worse. Infections can flare up MS, so thus the cycle. Heck, now they are even thinking that I was mis-diagnosed bipolar years back, and that it's related to the MS. o_0 At the moment, however, I'm just hoping they hurry up in figuring things out, since not walking kinda sux.
I just wanted to mention this since I don't want to discourage ppl from getting surgery, being afraid that they can get the same bladder issues that I've had, or to the extent that I had. Since now, there's a possibility it wasn't even related to surgery at all.
*Hugs ya*
That's definitely hard news. My cousin has it too.
Hi Gothique hon, long time no see. I suppose I should read all the posts before responding but I wish to say that I am sorry to hear about all the health problems. Anyway email us or call us if you wish, I believe you still have out phone number
Cindy
Aww Nat,
I hope they can sort this stuff out soon.
*Big Hugs*
Alice
Oh, I'm so sorry to hear it! My heart just sank. :'( I hope that at least having a name for it can help you find a way to manage it.
~Alyssa
Oh, Nat! So sorry to hear that. I hope it turns out not to be MS.
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A friend has MS and I never thought about that it could be that. I will ask her tomorrow.
Janet
That totally blows!
ask your doc about growth hormone.it is still experimental but they use it here in greece for sclirosis and altshaimer.
I am curious do you take baths or showers? It seems when i took baths i got a lot more UTI's and also do you weigh a lot or just normal because i had gained weight living with an elderly woman and cooking for her and i gained a lot of weight and went from a size 6 to a size 16 - 18 and my left thigh went numb. I have since moved to a farm and take showers and never seem to get UTI's anymore. Yes i did take a antibiotic which helped but no baths seems to have kept them away. As for my leg it is no longer numb as i have worked hard and lost a lot of weight and i was down to a size 6-8 this past summer traveling by horse and buggy and now i am back to a 8-9 (winter and all) and so i have no numbness. This spring i will surely get back to a 6 again as it warms up.
My friend Peg, who has MS, has problems with her bladder and bowels. She has some memory problems, which may or may not be related. She is just about 65. And some coordination problems.
Janet
postoplesbian: I rarely take baths, and I'm not fat. Yes, I gained some weight after SRS, but now I'm a healthly weight. In the last 4 days, I've been to the hospital twice as I can barely walk anymore (legs are starting not to work). Tomorrow I go to the hospital yet again, for an MRI this time. Last night, i had a cat scan to look for tumors. I'm pretty sure if my problems were because I'm fat the doctors would have noted that. I've seen three doctors in the last 4 days, and I see another one tomorrow -- I highly doubt they'd be bringing in specialists and doing all of these scans if they weren't worried and if the cause of it was being fat. Here, the wait list is 9 months to get an MRI and see a neurologists -- I'm getting all that done in a week, believe me, it's more serious than gaining 10 whole pounds after surgery.
Everyone else: Thnx for the kind words. I hope I get answers soon, as my ability to walk has gotten worse and worse, along coordination in the hands. It's very scary at the moment. A week ago, I had some balance issues but I could walk, now, I can can't walk far, and walking is slow and mostly stumbling, falling, or not working at all. I call it my zombie walk. LOL
As for the cat scan last night -- it's not a tumor, thankfully.
:( hugses.
Mina.
Thats awesome news about the tumor gothique, i know your having rough time of late...just hoping it gets much much better for you.
~Big Hugs~ on the news of the tumor. Hoping that the other will turn out in a positive note.
Janet
Well, I went and saw a neurologist, who canceled my MRI because he's uncomfortable with me being trans. The first question/statement he said to me was, "So, you're a boy who's trying to become a girl?" He mostly kept mentioning the trans stuff, and was at first suggesting that I'm mentally ill because I transitioned (and has surgery), so there for, everything is in my head. He mentioned that I probably am having a hard time being a woman, and suggested I shouldn't take hormones, etc, etc. I was royally pissed. He was very ignorant and focused more on his dislike of trans ppl than helping me out as a patient. He said an MRI would be a waste of money on me.
Meanwhile, I have a psychiatrist (2 actually) that can vouch that I'm not depressed or "having a hard time with being a woman." Also, that my symptoms are not psychosomatic or a manifestation of depression, dress, or because I'm transgendered. My hormones are perfectly fine, which my GP checks regularly. I have been FT for about three years and been on HRT for three years, and had surgery last June -- I'd say I'm pretty well adjusted. And 3 doctors, my GP and two doctors at the hospital all agree that I have something neurological going on.
So, now I'm back to square one and talking to my GP in a few days (hopefully by Wed) to look for another opinion. I'm also going to mention the anti-trans rhetoric that I had to endure from the neurologist. I'm not happy about that, and again, highlights how bigots can be doctors, and how those doctors can affect the health care of trans ppl buy denying or shrugging off concerns because they are "uncomfortable" treating a trans person.
(He knew I was trans because it's in my health records. I usually try to avoid talking about it unless I have to, ie, at the hospital I didn't mention it and I had fair, honest, treatment in regards to blood tests, a cat can, and being generally nice to me. The Neruo had my full file, and so I couldn't hide sadly).
I'd say this is the 2nd time I've had anti-trans rhetoric by a doctor. I had a GP near the start of my transition (I already was FT, but seeking hrt) who decided to tell me that God didn't want me to be a girl, and that he'd been a missionary for years, saving people from the "transgender lifestyle" and all I had to do was believe in Jesus and be cured, etc, etc, etc.
As for the Neuro, I can send in a complaint (they don't go far, and I have no evidence except my word vs his). I'll have to see what notes he might have sent to my doctor; if the wrong pronouns are used, that can be evidence. If he suggests to stick me on a psychiatric-based medication, that's also evidence (he subtly suggested it). It can be a long, drawn out process, actually.
Of course, I didn't sit there and take the insults, I rebutted with saying that I've been on HRT for 3 years, my levels are fine, and I've been FT for years, and that being a woman in the world isn't a new adjustment that's causing major chaos and stress in my life. That I see a psychiatrist, who doesn't believe my symptoms are psychological at all. And that I'm a woman, both anatomically and legally, not a "boy," and he should respect that.
Natalie hon, I wouldn't just talk to your GP he or she would have to follow channels and it would end up wasting time while you got sicker. If there's anything like the PCT's in the UK, I'd suggest you get a hold of them ASAP and explain your situation. I had a similar problem with a doctor when I was in the UK who refused treatment because of me being trans. I got in touch with the PCT, sounded really defeated on the phone, and two weeks later this nice young Italian guy called Antonio had even gotten funding for me to go through the gender identity clinic at Charing Cross, even though I was only a UK resident at the time.
Laying a complaint might not help, but it would go into a file somewhere, and if he does it to somebody else at least there's evidence that he's done this before. Arrrgh! He's placing your life in danger because of his bigotry. The man should be charged with criminal malpractice. >:(
Mina.
Hi Natalie hon, you have our phone number and I already informed you that we have good medical system that does not discriminate against the care of transsexual individuals in the down town Vancouver area.
I have not heard of such prejudiced horse Dr's as you have out there even in the small town of Midland in central Ontario where I use to live.The medical system there treated us just like any other female citizen in that town.
Same as they do here.
Cindy
Unbelievable, Nat! Complain every way you possibly can. He needs to have his bigoted ways on record. Be sure to tell your GP you need an opinion from someone who is not a Neanderthal.
Please let us know how we can help.
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Another Zucker disciple.
Cindy
Thank you everyone for your kind support. It's greatly appreciated.
Anyway, my GP is sending me for an MRI on March 18th, which is good. He started me on some medication but it's too early to know if it's really working or not. It's called gabapentin, and it's supposed to help with nerves and stuff. My GP doesn't agree with how the neurologist treated me and brushed me off like he did. Although, he said it would be best not to make too many waves at the moment, 'cause there's not a whole lot of neurologist here and I don't want a complaining rep and end up having no neuro wanting to treat me. He's looking for a gay/trans friendly neuro for me.
In the mean time, since I haven't been able to work I haven't had much money. I have some disability coming in now, which is good, but it's not a lot. And with my roommate moving out and me being stuck with the entire rent, I couldn't pay it. So, my landlord says I have a week before I get evicted. At the moment I'm packing up my stuff, which is hard to do with my condition.
So, at this time it's pretty hard and devastating, being hit with both being sick and losing my home. I'm getting rid of a lot of my stuff 'cause I don't have anywhere to put it all, so that's also hard to lose a lot of the things I have on top of my house. As for my health, it's hard being in limbo while I'm waiting tests.
One of my friends who lives in another city is willing to take me in, so I'm thankful for that. I was very scared that I was going to be living on the streets.
Hi Natalie hon, please keep in touch and let us know what is happening.
Cindy
I am one month post op. I had pain when peeing. I went to my female doctor. She did a swab of my vagina to see if it was a infection. It was an infection. She put me on Macrobid twice a day for seven days. She also recommend taking probiotics regularly.
You are now a woman and your Doctor needs to treat you like a woman. What happens to a woman can now happen to you sweetheart. If your doctor will not treat you like a woman then go find a new one preferably a woman who will.
Quote from: gothique11 on March 01, 2009, 01:31:43 AM
Thank you everyone for your kind support. It's greatly appreciated.
Anyway, my GP is sending me for an MRI on March 18th, which is good. He started me on some medication but it's too early to know if it's really working or not. It's called gabapentin, and it's supposed to help with nerves and stuff. My GP doesn't agree with how the neurologist treated me and brushed me off like he did. Although, he said it would be best not to make too many waves at the moment, 'cause there's not a whole lot of neurologist here and I don't want a complaining rep and end up having no neuro wanting to treat me. He's looking for a gay/trans friendly neuro for me.
In the mean time, since I haven't been able to work I haven't had much money. I have some disability coming in now, which is good, but it's not a lot. And with my roommate moving out and me being stuck with the entire rent, I couldn't pay it. So, my landlord says I have a week before I get evicted. At the moment I'm packing up my stuff, which is hard to do with my condition.
So, at this time it's pretty hard and devastating, being hit with both being sick and losing my home. I'm getting rid of a lot of my stuff 'cause I don't have anywhere to put it all, so that's also hard to lose a lot of the things I have on top of my house. As for my health, it's hard being in limbo while I'm waiting tests.
One of my friends who lives in another city is willing to take me in, so I'm thankful for that. I was very scared that I was going to be living on the streets.
Natalie, I'm Wing! your Montreal sister...
pls let me know what you are doing, I'll do as much as I can to help you out...
BTW, I don't have any peeing problems at all...
I don't really have any problems with peeing or leaking at the moment unless I have another dizzy spell and pass out -- not sure what it is, or if it's some sort of seizure. I just blank, and fall to the ground. Last time (Sat) I was with a group of people and apparently I wasn't very aware and my eyes were rolling up and darting back and forth really fast for a few seconds and I was limp all over. I came to, but was confused for a while and didn't know who people were or where I was. That's been happening for a while now. Usually my limbs hurt for a long while after, too. The one medication I'm on, gabapentin, seems to help with recovery time for episodes, but does nothing for the episodes.
I just keep getting shuffled around with doctors, getting endless blood test and scans. I see an internist at the end of this month, and another neuro in July.
I did lose my place, but I found a place to stay with a friend in a small town. I don't like the small town and it's difficult to get into the city all of the time to see my doctors. I'm working on moving back to the city so it's easier.
--natalie
Best of luck to you Natalie.
I pray that you come in contact with Doctors who can help with your medical situation.
Take care,
Michelle.
Quote from: gothique11 on May 11, 2009, 05:14:40 PM
I don't really have any problems with peeing or leaking at the moment unless I have another dizzy spell and pass out -- not sure what it is, or if it's some sort of seizure. I just blank, and fall to the ground. Last time (Sat) I was with a group of people and apparently I wasn't very aware and my eyes were rolling up and darting back and forth really fast for a few seconds and I was limp all over. I came to, but was confused for a while and didn't know who people were or where I was. That's been happening for a while now. Usually my limbs hurt for a long while after, too. The one medication I'm on, gabapentin, seems to help with recovery time for episodes, but does nothing for the episodes.
I just keep getting shuffled around with doctors, getting endless blood test and scans. I see an internist at the end of this month, and another neuro in July.
I did lose my place, but I found a place to stay with a friend in a small town. I don't like the small town and it's difficult to get into the city all of the time to see my doctors. I'm working on moving back to the city so it's easier.
--natalie
Wow, I hope they find something. Good luck to you.
this might be way off topic..but i thought id mention it...when i was looking for help i went to my dads GP and asked him about hormones and told him what i wanted to do, well his answer was...perhaps you could go downtown to one of the gay bars and try being gay or move to Toronto......Say what??, The next time i took my dad in to see him he apoligized but ya was not a good start.....but i did find my way. This week on friday i goto my first TG meeting and im sure ill here alot more about rednecks and discrimination....cuz i dont really know what to expect of what is to come.
and i been on hormones now ......1 month on this day...Yeah \o/
and about the problems you having I cant really comment cuz i dont know anything, but i hope you get better.
Caylea
Quote from: gothique11 on May 11, 2009, 05:14:40 PM
I don't really have any problems with peeing or leaking at the moment unless I have another dizzy spell and pass out -- not sure what it is, or if it's some sort of seizure. I just blank, and fall to the ground. Last time (Sat) I was with a group of people and apparently I wasn't very aware and my eyes were rolling up and darting back and forth really fast for a few seconds and I was limp all over. I came to, but was confused for a while and didn't know who people were or where I was. That's been happening for a while now. Usually my limbs hurt for a long while after, too. The one medication I'm on, gabapentin, seems to help with recovery time for episodes, but does nothing for the episodes.
I just keep getting shuffled around with doctors, getting endless blood test and scans. I see an internist at the end of this month, and another neuro in July.
I did lose my place, but I found a place to stay with a friend in a small town. I don't like the small town and it's difficult to get into the city all of the time to see my doctors. I'm working on moving back to the city so it's easier.
--natalie
Eeek - that sounds like a fairly serious neurological complication. I wonder if you got an infection that somehow migrated to the vagus nerve?
Fingers crossed that they figure out what it is and get you all fixed up soon! :D
Oh, I'm always having infections -- lung, bladder, flus, etc, etc. I've been on anti-biotics 4 times this year, and I keep trying to avoid them (I get so sick I have to go to the hospital and they have to give them to me). I'm trying to eat yogurt like crazy and drink cranberry juice all of the time. ATM not sick, so that's good.
Quote from: gothique11 on May 15, 2009, 02:15:38 AM
Oh, I'm always having infections -- lung, bladder, flus, etc, etc. I've been on anti-biotics 4 times this year, and I keep trying to avoid them (I get so sick I have to go to the hospital and they have to give them to me). I'm trying to eat yogurt like crazy and drink cranberry juice all of the time. ATM not sick, so that's good.
Hi, Natalie, I'm sorry to hear that you have such problems with infections. I usually get at least one upper respiratory infection a year regardless of how I care for myself or do things like using hand sanitizer.
May I suggest that if you eat yogourt, you try Activia? It has what I understand to be good probiotic bacteria cultures and it tastes great!
Cranberry juice is great to help prevent bladder infections but you might want to make sure that you drink at least 2 litres of water a day. The more that passes through you, the less a chance for infection to sneak into your urinary tract.
Have you tried echinacea? It's a natural booster for the immune system. I use the Jameson brand, about 1,000 mg a day, especially during cold and flu season.
After reading some of the prior postings in this thread I have to agree that you might need to see a gynecologist. Someone in the medical establishment seems to be missing something that is simple yet big.
I hope that you feel better soon.
Wing Walker
Quote from: Wing Walker on May 15, 2009, 02:34:48 AM
Have you tried echinacea?
I don't want to be harsh but...
Are you serious? I think she needs fairly urgent medical attention - specifically a neurologist.
Not flower water.
yes, I take vitamins, cranberry juice, yougurt, the works. They keep testing my blood for things to see if they can figure out why my immune system doesn't wanna attack the germs (instead it just attacks me).
I see an internist at the end of this month, and another Neuro in July. I hope that none of the doctors are like the one neruo I saw who treated me pretty badly for being trans. It's never a good sign when the Neuro's first question is, "So, you had a sex change?" With a squint, and the look of ewww across his face.
I'm on some medication that seems to help some, at the moment. It's just mostly a waiting game.
--natalie
Quote from: gothique11 on May 16, 2009, 12:11:16 AM
It's never a good sign when the Neuro's first question is, "So, you had a sex change?" With a squint, and the look of ewww across his face.
Want me to stab him? :D
Hi Natalie, give the Echinacea a try. I have been taking it for a number of years now and I haven't even had a runny nose let alone a cold or flu in five years. It boosts the immune system. keep persevering with the Doctors but it don't hurt to try different things as well.
Cindy
I was just familiarising myself with various parts of this forum as a new member and read through this thread.
I'm utterly shocked at the way you've been treated, it's outrageous. I've had my fair share of rows with medical staff but that's usually because of mistakes made rather than the bare faced prejudice you've experienced here.
I earnestly hope you get the proper, professional and comprehensive medical care that you need! I'll be back to this thread with interest to get your news....
All the best and my sincere best wishes!!
-Jim
We have a medical center here in Vancouver with professional Doctors and therapists who specialise with Trans people, preop and post op. We also have a Ts support group where I participate in the support of Ts there as well. They are very good at what they do and don't treat you any different then the rest of the general population.
Natalie Wing Walker did some checking and says round trip air fare to Montreal is at $400. if you should decide to go see Dr. Brassard.
Cindy