Upcoming hysterectomy 6/18: Bowel Prep

I'm scheduled for a full hysterectomy on Saturday, June 18th, so tomorrow I have to do bowel prep. I'm supposed to drink 2 bottles of magnesium citrate and do an enema. Other than having to he close to my bathroom all day, what should I expect? This will be my first surgery in my life so I'm a bit nervous. Thank you for any advice!

A bowel prep is no fun but it will be over soon enough. Stay close to your restroom and I suggest having some nice moist wipes, talcum powder and hemorrhoid cream nearby. The wipes and cream can be refrigerated - the coolness feels great after your bum gets irritated. You will have A LOT of diarrhea. You can have clear liquids throughout the day like jello or chicken broth. I actually put the miralax powder in the warmed chicken broth versus drinking a cold liquid, made it much more palatable. I have also included some prep articles for you as you get ready for surgery tomorrow. I will be your hostess on the recovery forum. You will get a link to it tomorrow and it is an area dedicated solely to the sisters who have surgery this week. I hope to see you there when you are out of surgery and during recovery!

10 Essentials to Pack for Your Hysterectomy
Preparing Your Home for Hysterectomy Recovery
Bowel Prep

Thank you so much for the advice, Sarrie. I just drank my first bottle and am waiting for the "moving experience". The magnesium citrate tasted like a salty lemonade. I had put it in the fridge so that it will be easier to drink. Now I'm just waiting for the results. I do have baby wipes handy.

You might also try Vaseline as a "barrier" on your bum.

Hi SgtBuffy -

I am sure you are will on your way with the bowel prep ... so to speak !

I did the magnesium citrate as well, and chilling it really helps. I also selected the "tasty" lemon flavor. (If it says "tasty" on the bottle, you know it is a lie!)

Stick close to the bathroom, and the wipes help...

Here is some information for you since Your Hysterectomy is Your First Surgery.

Good luck with your surgery! We will be waiting for you on the other side.