Open Question for m2f women that had partners during GRS.

Hi, I've been at this transition thing for over 15 years now. I've got a bit of a situation.

Here's the situation

I'm pretty stealth, with a few exceptions. I met my girlfriend (cisgender, a few years younger than me) 5 years ago, and there isn't much sign of us separating.

I learned the ACA covers a lot of medical procedures that were basically off limits to me financially- like GRS. So when I learned about that, I leaped at the opportunity to get my gatekeeper letters (another financial roadblock covered by insurance) in order and submitted. I'm currently undergoing the genital electrolysis and I expect to receive a surgery date any time now.

My partner is scared to death about the surgery. It's not entirely her fault either. She gets anxiety, so take natural concerns you might have about something and turn it up a few notches. She's scared about our sex life changing, and becoming unrecognizable. She hopes that I will be happy and accepting with my body because she is.

Problem is... she doesn't understand the self-loathing that comes with being transgender. The dysphoria and accompanied depression are things she cannot comprehend, and she knows this. It makes trying to find ways to talk about my side of the situation, and make it comprehensible VERY difficult. Remember, this is a 5-year relationship. We're not married, but things are on that track. Like anything in hers and my relationship, I'm trying to make this work while doing what's best for me (and us).

Here's the question

It's all well and easy to ask for advice. But really, I just want to hear how others dealt with having a partner that was with them through transition. How their lives changed after surgery wounds healed. Your sex lives, if you're willing. I'd like to be able to share the thread with her, if I get enough responses. <3

Thanks