a month to go

I'm trying to get myself ready for this. I have known for the last 8 years that I would be joining the club at some point. I'm 28 and don't have any children so I don't have that worry. (Or, do I?) I was wondering if someone who has been through this can give me some advice on what to take with me to the hospital and what I can do for when I get home. My family doesn't live near me and my DH has to go right back to work. And, I don't think my cats will be much help.

And, if some one can give me some advice on how to deal with the depression of never having my own children. And, how to get my DH to understand what I'm going through.

Thanks muchly.

Hi. I can give you some ideas what to take with you.

Be sure to take lip balm, a robe and slippers, toothpaste and toothbrush, your own shampoo if you prefer. I didn't take a nightgown cuz I didn't want it soiled and it would have happened on more than one occasion. I just wore what they gave me. I took CD's to listen to, but never did. I read a magazine. Some people suggest earplugs to block out hospital sounds to sleep better, or whatever helps you. Be sure to take baggy and comfortable pants and slip-on shoes to wear home so you don't have to bend over to tie/untie your shoes. Also important--take a list of phone numbers so you won't have to look any up. I took my families numbers (all their home, work and cell #'s), and the insurance company just in case. I couldn't reach the table with the phone book from the bed--but I had my list just in case.

Good luck to you and let us know how you are doing.

Dear dusteenalys,

Welcome to Hyster Sisters. While I'm awfully sorry that you are facing surgery, and at such a young age, I am glad that you found HS and posted to introduce yourself. I was already in menopause when I had my hysterectomy, but I can sympathise with the emotions that you are feeling right now. I'd like to encourage you to also post in the Aching Hearts Forum where you'll meet others who are going through some of the same emotions as you are.

Also, please be sure to read the Pre-Op Hints and the Post-Op Hints. They are full of great advice that will help you to prepare for your surgery and recovery.

I hope you'll continue to read and to post any questions that you may have - we'll do our best to help.

s

On your list of things to take to the hospital, make sure you include chapstick. Your mouth and lips will be incredibly dry after surgery. I took long-sleeve pajamas, and was very glad I did, as I got brush-burn type sores on my elbows from pushing myself up. You won't be able to use them, of course, until after the catheter comes out, and you may be perfectly comfortable with hospital gowns. Its nice to have them, just in case. Also, many people say they take books, but aren't able to concentrate enough to read. I am an avid reader, and was on my second book when I left the hospital. Just make sure you take something to do to pass the time. I didn't sleep well in the hospital, so I had a lot of extra time on my hands when I should have been sleeping! I would have gone totally insane if I hadn't taken ample reading material.
Its nice to have someone at home with you the first day, but if you can't, don't stress over it. If you are able to get up OK in the hospital and walk around the halls, you will probably be OK at home if you really must be alone. (If you aren't able to walk the halls, though, you might want to have a plan B.) Just make sure you have something already prepared to eat that you can just pop in the microwave. I'm an early riser, and I got up and made my own coffee my first morning home, even though my husband would have been more than happy to do it if I had waken him. Doctors always recommend walking a little anyway.
Best of luck with your surgery. Be good to yourself during this pre-op period. The pre-op period is probably as emotionally challenging as the post-op period is physically challenging!

I just wanted to thank everyone for their advice. I have started a list and it keeps growing. I'm sure that in the coming weeks I will have more questions and concerns.

Thanks much!