Getting ready for surgery

[Butterfly98]

Hi ladies, I've got my pre-op appointment on Tuesday and my hysterectomy is the following week. Never having had surgery before, do I get the opportunity to ask any questions during the pre-op or is it all formalities? Also, how many nights did you stay in hospital after surgery and how much did you pack to take in with you?

Thank you x

[KA410]

I don't know if it will be the same where you are but when I had my pre-op I saw a nurse who went through all the paperwork and took bloods, then I saw a junior doctor who asked a few questions about my general health and past medical history and listened to my chest - I think to make sure I was fit for having general anaesthetic and surgery - then I saw my consultant and had an opportunity to discuss things with him and ask questions.

I had my hysterectomy on a Thursday morning and went home on the Monday afternoon. I had an abdominal hysterectomy. I think if you have a laparoscopic hysterectomy you tend to get home sooner.

I had one small case with me. I had a wash bag with travel size shower gel, shampoo, toothbrush etc. I had one comfy loose outfit to wear home and four pairs of pyjamas. (I was told at my pre-op how long I should expect to be kept in.) I took loads of different shapes and sizes of knickers because I just didn't know what would be comfy. I figured if I took a selection then there would have to be some that were good, and there were.

I hope all goes well for you. The staff where I was were all fantastic. I'm sure you will be well looked after.

Kirsty x

[IndigoBlue61]

Hello Butterfly98 😊

Glad you have got your date 😊 Waiting is the hardest part.

I did pretty much the same as Kirsty, but prefer nightie to pjs, for quite a long time anything around my waist was uncomfortable 😕 Even now at 7 weeks post op by evening I need my nightie on!!! Lol 😊

I took my phone and headphones into hosp to listen to music as well as texting etc also a notebook and pen to write down who said what. 😊

I was also in four nights 😊

Biggest tip is keep your bowels moving - prunes fruit and I used a stool softener (lactulose) sorry tmi!!! 😊

Thinking of you 😊 Xx