Some things that helped me

Just back from Fri 2/28 LAVH, BSO. They also found some endo and took out the appendix. Am at home and surprised how good I am feeling - there is less pain and fatigue than I remember in 2001 when a fibroid on a stalk was taken out via laparoscopy.

Found out some things that helped me (if only from feeling in control and having "things to do" to recover faster):

1- Made it my job to drink and pee LOTS. While 2 days on clear liquids, I drank lots of Juicy Juice (a brand with 100% juice) - cran apple to help prevent urinary infections. Then I drank LOTS of water the first 2 days after surgery. The nurse said they're happy if patients can empty 2T/hr of urine the first night (I still had a foley) - I was putting out 1 c/hr! I also have cran apple juice at home now to drink for the next week or so.

2- The first solid food I asked for was yogurt - and then asked for yogurt with each of the 4 meals in the hospital (I ate it before the main meal). I did this to re-"colon"-ize my system with acidophilus culture bacteria (figuring the antibiotics they gave me plus going without food/fluids during surgery might have knocked out the healthy bacteria in my digestive track).

3 - Heat felt good the day after the surgery - a nurse ordered me this wonderful pump thing (T-Pump?) that circulates water thru a bathmat sized "pad" that distributes the heat. I used it on my abdomen and loved it! (I only took it off when hot flashes forced me to).

4- The amount of intestinal cramps/gas has surprised me while my bowels are refilling. The nurses told me short walks (just down the hall and back to my room) would help with any gas - and it has. I also immediately took some stool softener, citrucel and a few oz of prune juice when getting home. Still haven't moved, but after some of my previous constipation/bowel pain - I know that if I can keep my bowel contents soft, I will survive. Have found NSAIDs (ibuprofen and related) also help with that kind of pain.

Finally- my gratiitude to all who provide info and support in this place. When my DH's eyes glazed over (and he couldn't listen) or I just needed some practical info about what to expect - I got it here.

Now I expect to go to the "other side" (Post Op).

Thanks.

Fortyeight

Welcome home, Princess Fortyeight! You look lovely in your new crown. I am happy that all went well and want to thank you for sharing helpful hints with the other sisters.

Now that you're recovering please don't forget your proper princess training by getting plenty of , a little each day and lots of liquids.

You only have one chance to heal properly and this is it so let the pampering begin!!

Hi 48!!!!! I'm so glad to hear that you are home and doing so well. Continue to walk and rest. You look gorgeous in your crown. Let the pampering begin!
Blessings,
TC