Waiting for a hysterectomy and very nervous..

Hi Adeliene, 

My experience was that the hospital gave me towels and a hospital nightie for the first day or so. After that, to be honest I preferred to use my own. So maybe take 2:3 nighties, plus large big girl pants (to accommodate the post op swelling) to wear once the catheter is removed, your usual toiletries, flannel etc. I chose not to wash my hair whilst I was in hospital but I did take some dry shampoo which was recommended by my daughter and works a treat! You might also want a dressing gown, some socks (my feet were freezing post op) and slippers (they’re not keen on flip flops or mules for safety reasons) You’ll need loose, comfortable clothes to go home in - so leggings a couple of sizes larger of loose waisted dress or skirt would be useful. I also took my phone and charger, my kindle reader and a small,inexpensive mo3 player  with ear phones. Loose change is great fir when they come round with the trolley for newspapers etc. I found the hospital food dreadful, so maybe some snacks/biscuits/dried fruit to keep you going between meals. Ear plugs and an eye mask might help you sleep better as hospitals are very bright and very noisy. 

Hope that helps a little. I remember being very nervous too but I hope that, like me, you’ll find the op is  much better than you anticipate. Gentle hugs x

Thanks fairycake, 

I am glad you mentioned the socks, I'll start packing my small case tomorrow.I like your list and thanks again. Just hope I get my surgery soon. From Adeliene 

Hi Adeliene,

i second everything fairycake recommends and I'd add windeez for the post op wind, some lozenges as you wake with a dry throat and something to move your bowels if you need it, prune juice worked for me, although the hospital might be able to help with something for your bowels. 

I was able to wear my loose elasticated pyjamas (if you have a preference). A few pads or liners might be handy too, I didn't need mine but had them in just in case as they said I might have some bleeding. 

As you won't have room for a cushion maybe think of something that you are taking that you can roll up to support your belly as you get up and down and can put under the seat belt for your car journey home to support over the bumps, it makes a big difference as its an odd sensation going over pit holes, etc.

Good luck for your op, I hope that you hear from the hospital soon.

lots of love

xxx

Dear Arla,

Thanks I will make sure I have lozenges and something for the wind. also I will make a note of every thing I need. I can roll up my cardigan for under my belly for the journey home that is great advice you have given me..

 Thanks your so lovely from Adeliene x