Needing Tips for Post-Op

Hello to all...

I was wondering if anyone can give me some advice for post-op. My finace says that, that is the most important part of this whole ordeal (taking care of my body and not over doing it). Will I need a binder with having a TAH? How can I make myself more comfortable afterwards (gas, BMs, etc...)? Any suggestions on what to do prior to my surgery so that the healing process is not so hard (laxatives, rest, etc...)?

Any advice will be greatly appreciated. Thanks to all who respond to this post.

Hello ~ some things that are helping me are Miralex for constipation, Gas-X for gas. I had the Laparoscopic hysterectomy but have had a C-section in the past and I'm sure the abdominal binder will help U down the road. Also, maybe stock up with some frozen bags of peas that U can rotate in the freezer for the discomfort/itching from the incision. (I remember mine itched like crazy!) Some comfy clothes will help too ~ along with plenty of jello and soups maybe premade right before U go in for your surgery.

Hope this helps and GOOD LUCK!
Simeseblue

Do as little as possible for as long as possible. No pulling on those abdominals!
Begin with walking in small increments, but make sure you do!
Lots of water, stool softeners and prune juice.

AND, if you have cats, don't let them walk on your belly! My 16 year old cat gets great pleasure from doing that!

Yeah don't overdo it whatever you do, lol! I was feeling pretty good and thought I was all better couple weeks after surgery, went rollerskating around the block with my son and thought I was going to pass out. Just listen to your body, it will let you know when its had enough. Try not to overdo it. I know its hard when you feel like you're all recovered but you not as soon as it appears. Just take it slowly. Best of luck! ron-ron.

I had a TAH three weeks ago. I got a lot of good tips from the Hints from Members page.

I think there are three areas to plan: medical care, physical care, and mental/emotional care. Your doctor should give you the medical info -- prescriptions plus whatever OTC medicines you should take, like Colace).

Physical care can encompass a lot. I set up a little nest for myself before going to the hospital, so it would be ready when I got home. I'm wearing a binder and using a small pillow, about the size of a hardback book. It's handy for bracing the weak abdominal muscles. (Sneezing hurts.)

For mental/emotional care, gather the stuff that will keep you entertained for a few weeks: computer, books, magazines, etc. Anything you can do while reclining (I find I can sit for about an hour at a time, then I have to lie down again).

Bring pen/paper to the hospital so you don't have to rely on your memory. Write down what the doctor tells you, and write down your questions for when the doctor stops by.

Good luck.

Thank you all for your advice, I have already started a list of stuff to do and buy prior to my surgery. This site has been very helpful with everything and through reading true life stories from others has helped so much! You all are the best!!!

Again, thank you.

I got the "binder" on ... really not bad. It feels pretty good having some support.

	Quote:
Originally Posted by astinson Hello to all... I was wondering if anyone can give me some advice for post-op. My finace says that, that is the most important part of this whole ordeal (taking care of my body and not over doing it). Will I need a binder with having a TAH? How can I make myself more comfortable afterwards (gas, BMs, etc...)? Any suggestions on what to do prior to my surgery so that the healing process is not so hard (laxatives, rest, etc...)? Any advice will be greatly appreciated. Thanks to all who respond to this post.

There are quite a few old posts here on this topic, and loads of really good answers! Feel free to scroll and search back in old posts, I think you'll really enjoy all the info!

Not to "ignore" your question, but I spent hours scrolling old posts and making lists.. they really helped me get organized and feel prepared. :-)

>>hugs<<

	Quote:
Originally Posted by astinson Hello to all... I was wondering if anyone can give me some advice for post-op. My finace says that, that is the most important part of this whole ordeal (taking care of my body and not over doing it). Will I need a binder with having a TAH? How can I make myself more comfortable afterwards (gas, BMs, etc...)? Any suggestions on what to do prior to my surgery so that the healing process is not so hard (laxatives, rest, etc...)? Any advice will be greatly appreciated. Thanks to all who respond to this post.

Non-carbonated drinks, a cooler or small fridge near your recovery area, extra pillows to prop yourself and to put under your knees to relieve tension on your belly, Gas-X, Phillips magnesium tablets as a non-stimulant laxative, prune juice if you can stand it, supply of bland/easily digested food for the first few days, and get a grabber thingy (you can find one here on the Hystersisters store). You don't want to be bending over or stretching for the first couple of weeks. Some folks get the waterless shampoo and body wash. Pads or pantyliners because spotting/moderate bleeding is expected. Panties that won't aggravate your incisions, pj's that are a bit larger than usual. And keep a thermometer handy, any temp over 101 means a phone call to the doctor.