Laparoscopy and imposter syndrome

[PJ118]

Does anyone have any tips for dealing with imposter syndrome about Endo or what I should take with me and expect from my laparoscopy???

Anything is appreciated xx

[KittyTherapy]

Hi,

As far as tips I'm not sure but your definitely not alone in feeling this way! I think we all gaslight ourselves & feel lost/unseen without a proper diagnosis but know your symptoms are real and what your feeling is valid.

In terms of practical advice for surgery (I've copied & pasted one of my posts for ease):

> Would suggest packing an overnight bag just in case. I had to stay in for a night.

> Bring something to keep you entertained as there will be waiting around. I bought my cheap tablet in. Wouldn't advise taking mega valuables in just in case they get lost (sadly it happens).

>Some comfy loose pj's (like a nightdress) which I wore during the day and on the journey home as it was the most comfortable.

> comfy knickers are essential! I packed my biggest granny knickers.

> Also a gown/cardigan to save your dignity when walking about/down to theatre in an open back hospital gown.

>I also took slides as meant i didnt have to bend down to put shoes on!

>bring a pillow/blanket to act as a barrier between your tummy and the seatbelt for the journey home.

>I found peppermint tea helped get rid of bloating/excess gas (I dislike the taste but forced myself to drink it bc it genuinely helped so much) or look into things like windeze or deflatine if you can't tolerate it.

>You might want to pack some snacks to munch on in hospital.

>Maybe some earbuds if you think you will struggle to sleep as its quite noisy in hospital at night.

>Take all your normal meds with you and let the nurses know.

>Might help to pack some sanitary pads, I was on period so packed some anyway but I expect regardless you will bleed and the hospital only provide very thick pads.

Hope all goes well for you in surgery and recovery. Just take the time to heal, experiences vary wildly but for me it took 2 weeks of being in bed before I started to do anything. Total of 6 weeks signed off then went back to work on phased return. Some people are quicker or longer to heal, try not to compare and judge yourself 🩷

[Bakewey]

I’d also pack wet wipes and a face mask. I found it difficult to switch off so face mask + earphones were a must for me. As were mints and mouthwash. For some reason, after surgery I always smell differently so a good quality deodorant and a small perfume would be nice (wards can often get a bit smelly).

I also bought a kid’s step for at home to help with going to the toilet after. I did some batch cooking and bought some easy to cook meals as well. Panty liners became my best friend gif a while - defo worth having a selection of towels at home.

I was back to work after 4 weeks. No phased return. I should not have returned so quickly and I should have requested a phased return. As Kitty wrote, we are all different and recovery will different fit us all but go be kind to yourself and rest as much as possible.

I hope your recovery is a smooth one. Best wishes for the new year.