surgery coming up and very anxious

Hi Ladies,
Just joined after reading many posts about pre-op and post-op experiences. Surgery is in a week and I feel like a baby. Really would love some advice on preparing, what to bring to hospital and what to expect first few days.


Thanks!

Prep: make a nest for recovery. Bed or couch or recliner. Get your essentials together in that spot. Meds, remote, water, Chapstick, etc. Have some easy fix meals in the freezer.

You didn't say what kind if hyst you are having. I had a vaginal and packed very lightly. Only spent one night. I wore a maxi dress and flip flops. Took my phone and iPad, a notebook and pen, and ID/insurance info.

I slept a lot my first few days. Took my meds as scheduled, napped, walked a little, drank plenty of water. I was sore and crampy for the first few weeks, but nothing horrible. It really wasn't as bad as I expected or feared. And I haven't had any issues like those on the post op boards. Reading there will scare you to death! Expect to feel tired for weeks and it will hit out of nowhere some days.

Check out the checkpoints sections for more help. Good luck in your journey!

We are all so nervous waiting for our actual surgery but this site has wonderful articles for you. Try to spend some time surfing the site...especially check out the Gray Tabs on tap and click on Articles. Then click on Pre Op for a list of topics that really helped me prepare for the surgery and recovery. You'll feel so much better once you have a better idea of what to expect. Also download the Free ebook which was a lifesaver for me.

The biggest tip for the hospital is to pack lightly and bring a super comfy outfit for the ride home - a dress, a loose shirt, any type of elastic capris or pants...either boy shorts or Granny Panties were my favorites. Though not a fashion statement, I stress going for comfort. I highly recommend getting a small pillow to have for under your seatbelt for the ride home. It will also be great for recovery As it cushions sneezes, coughing, laughter, and visits from small pets and rambunctious visitors.

I agree with GiGi - no need to read the Post Ops forum cuz it will scare you for no reason. You need to focus now on positive energy. Surround yourself with upbeat friends and family this week prior to countdown. The pain is different for all of us, but will be managed well at the hospital and your doctor will give you meds to take at home. Have easy to prepare meals ready to go, and clean the house before your surgery and you'll be in great shape.

Best of luck and we are all here to help and share our journey.

Thanks Gigi - your kind words helped. I'm having the DaVinci and I've read so much about that - good and bad. I agree reading the post-op can be scary. Focus on the positive and a good outcome is key I think.

Thank Marcia, your reply was help. I so appreciate this forum. I'm having partial DaVinci, keeping ovaries. I know I have to come home with a the catheter for a day.

I have read that some stay an extra day in the hospital to avoid having cath at home...but don't know if this would be an option. If you do need to have it home, from what i have read, The key seems to be to rest as soon as you are home so that you minimize the chance of infection.
Just make certain you get all the necessary instructions so you feel more comfortable. Hang in there, you can and will so this!
Keep posting if you think of new questions so that you can get feedback and ideas.
Hugs and prayers.