Anyone know how much bleeding to expect?

I'm new here ~ I'm scheduled for an abdominal hyster on March 16th & am pretty scared. I'm so glad I found this site! I've searched but can't find anyone post-op talking about bleeding after surgery... Anyone know how much you bleed after this? Also, I'm feeling a little panicky about the whole "donate blood to yourself" just-in-case thing - I'm anemic - will they really take my blood?

As I understand it it's not usually nesessary to do transfusions with this type of surgery, so that means not a whole lot of bleeding, probably no more than childbirth, and less after!!! Also, although they will do self donations if you are anemic, I believe you have to donate quite a while before your surgery, so your body has a chance to replenish your own blood supply before the surgery, otherwise it wouldn't make a lot of sense to donate your own blood! Your DR or his office staff should be able to tell you about these issues. Does he want you to donate or was that just a what-if question?

I only have 2 1/2 weeks till surgery so I'm concerned about donating blood - I think it's just a precaution they have everyone do - but I don't want to deplete my iron supply before the surgery, you know? Should I call the Dr. and call this to her attention, or do you think the lab will know when they check my hemoglobin count if they should take blood or not?

They will probably test your blood before donation. Can you call the lab and find out what their guidelines are? Or bring it up when you go to donate. You might want to bring it up with your DR, also, if this is a hospital policy and not her idea. She's undoubtedly aware of your hemoglobin levels and may be able to reassure you, or to get the hospital to not take your blood.