First Surgery?

This will be my first real surgery. Had a cone biopsy 9 years ago. I was under but for only like 20 mins tops. I don't even think I was intubated. Went home an hour later. And then I also had a horrendously long and painful childbirth (approx 30 hours...8 pushing...two epidurals didn't work...may have left my body at one point).

Aside from that, this will be my first real surgery and I am scared to pieces.

Is this a first for anyone else?

Not my first, but I'm quite weird that I enjoy the experience of the anaesthetic lol! It so relaxing and makes me feel peaceful! Good luck, it'll all be over before you know it! Xx

My hysterectomy was my first real surgery too and I had no idea what to expect or how I would react and recover. Don't be shy about asking any questions you may have about the preparation and the recovery period. The medical folks seem to think we all are experienced surgical patients and leave out a lot of details! I had a good experience, no problems with anesthesia, healed quickly, recovered well. Was surprised by the fatigue, flabbergasted by the lack of pain. Good luck!

I've had surgeries since I was 7 for various reasons - tonsils, appendix, gall bladder, knee surgery. Each and every time the hospital staff was careful to explain each step along the way. Be honest about your fears, ask them to explain explain explain. Ask the 'silliest' questions. Cry if you need to. Ask for the hospital clergy if you want. The drs and nurses are compassionate people who want to help. Know you are not alone.

Hi Cheers44. I had my hysterectomy 4 weeks ago and it was my first surgery ever. I had never even been under anesthesia. I still have my wisdom teeth, for crying out loud. I was terrified of going under. It was a bigger fear for me than the surgery. I know how you feel. No matter how much I thought about it rationally, I couldn't shake my feelings of fear. But, everything turned out fine, my surgery went well, my biopsies were all benign and I am recovering well from a TAH. The only thing that even remotely calmed me down was thinking about how many women have this surgery. In my family two women had had it and here at this site, there are a lot of members and many of us are already post-op. I know it's hard, but try to find little things that take your mind off your upcoming surgery. I found activities that required a lot of concentration made me temporarily forget to worry. You'll do great. Best of luck and wishing you a good surgery and recovery.

Thanks so much for the answers and support!! I cannot tell you how much it is appreciated!!