Hiya! I have my first lap on Wednesday and I am soooo nervous. Excited the dates finally come around but so nervous because it now feels so real! Any advice?
Also, probably a really silly question but I need to shower in the morning, I’m guessing I can just use my normal shampoo/shower gel but no deodorant after?😂
Hi singingelephant,
There is an information pack about the laparoscopy which you can find here: endometriosis-uk.org/gettin...
My personal advice would be to make sure you have someone to support you after the laparoscopy. If you live by yourself make loads of meals to freeze down ready just to reheat. You will probably be recommended to take 2 weeks off work but if you can just allow yourself more time to be patient with your recovery. Maybe buy some big sanitary towels in case you do bleed a lot afterwards as some people do. If you subscribe to Netflix or anything like that, create a watch list with some uplifting shows but maybe a couple of sad ones if they'll help you to process your experience. Wearing deodorant should also be fine, it's completely up to you.
If you need someone to talk to, we do have a network of support services that are available to anybody affected by endometriosis. Our free helpline (0808 808 2227 )is run by volunteers who have personal experience of endometriosis. The helpline is open most days – the times it is open can be found here: endometriosis-uk.org/suppor...
You may also find our support groups useful as a place where you can discuss endometriosis and the issues you are facing with other sufferers. Please visit: endometriosis-uk.org/suppor... to find out if there is one in your local area. If you find there is not a face to face support group in your local area, we have an online support group.
Best of luck with your laparoscopy!
Thank you for all of the information and well wishes ☺️
Hi singleelephant,I was petrified before my first lap as i'd never had any kind of surgery before but i can assure you that you'll be fine. Worrying about it beforehand is the worst part. I was smiling and waving at people like a crazy lady when they wheeled back from recovery as i was so relieved lol.
The best advise i got was to not think about anything the docs will be doing. Just say to yourself ok, i just have to turn up, stay relaxed and have a nice sleep - leave the rest to them 
They are all lovely and will take good care of you. Just keep thinking about being one step closer to being sorted. If you start to feel panicky, try to think of something nice you're gonna do once youre home.
I was up and about pretty quickly but still took things easy for a couple of weeks. You may get shoulder pain from trapped gas afterwards and peppermint tea helps with this.
Wear loose clothing and when you're picked up i found putting a towel or blanket round your middle so the seat belt doesnt dig in too much And yes, i showered and washed my hair as normal before i went in. I wore deodorant too
All the best - you'll be fine xx
Thank you so much for your lovely reply. I’ve just packed my bag, peppermint tea, loose clothes etc. I think it’s the preempting what’s going to happen that’s driving me crazy. Like, I’ve gone through the, extreme what ifs and the reasonable ones and seem to have calmed myself somewhat. Just wish I could get it over with now. Especially as Im starting to flare up 😅 week before period joys😂..
I think I’m going to take your advice, try and stay calm and believe that all of my pushing for this is worth it. Been waiting for like since before covid, so glad it’s finally here!
Hope you’re well xx
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