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AIBU?

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Original poster

Fear of general anesthetic?

113 replies

Maria971 · 24/03/2026 20:00

I'm posting in AIBU for more traffic...

I've never had any form of anesthetic before, and I'm really scared of it. I know it's very safe, especially for a young, fit person (I'm 30), but I'm just so terrified of that tiny possibility that I might not wake up!

Could anyone share their experiences with being put under/how afraid or not they were etc.

OP posts:
Chopbob · 24/03/2026 20:22

Maria971 · 24/03/2026 20:18

Thank you! Is it common to experience a lot of abdominal bloating in the first week after the anaesthetic? I've watched Youtube videos were quite a lof of women say their stomachs were really hard and uncomfortable for the first 1-5 days after surgery.

Show quote history

I did have some bloating for a few days afterwards but I don't remember it being particularly uncomfortable. The TED stockings were the worst bit!

pinkdelight · 24/03/2026 20:21

Between me and my DC, I've had several encounters with anaesthetists and on that anecdotal basis can testify that they seem to be hotter than other doctors.

Obviously some have been female/not my type, but there's been a good few who've had a great bedside manner and not been bad looking either. Maybe it attracts a certain type who really love what they do and that comes through, or maybe I've been lucky, but just mentioning this factor in case it helps take the edge off the nerves. It's also always been completely fine and very professional.

Also, I remember one (particularly hot) anaesthetist who I knew socially, telling me that it wasn't putting you to sleep, it was more like he was editing out that part of your consciousness so you cut back to being awake without 'being there' for the parts in between. I quite like that thought and it's more how it felt to me.

Chopbob · 24/03/2026 20:20

I had GA when I had my gallbladder removed, it was absolutely fine!
One moment I was counting down from 10, next I was in my recovery room.
It is a bit different than being asleep in that it feels like no time has passed- if that makes sense.
I was also worried about being or feeling sick afterwards, but I had no nausea at all.

Original poster
Maria971 · 24/03/2026 20:18

name0284629505 · 24/03/2026 20:05

I've been an anaesthetist since 2010 and I've never had anyone 'not wake up'! Hope that helps!

Thank you! Is it common to experience a lot of abdominal bloating in the first week after the anaesthetic? I've watched Youtube videos were quite a lof of women say their stomachs were really hard and uncomfortable for the first 1-5 days after surgery.

OP posts:
Original poster
Maria971 · 24/03/2026 20:17

SmokeySmokeyBacon · 24/03/2026 20:07

I am not enthusiastic about them either, but I am more scared of not having life-saving/life-improving surgery.
I am scared of the dentist too, but I still go because I am more scared of having no teeth.

It's a cosmetic surgery I'm thinking about, but I really want it. I just have this phobia of being put under.

OP posts:
PurpleSky300 · 24/03/2026 20:11

I haven't had one in years and would be scared too, it's just fear of the unknown.

From what I remember though, you don't really a chance to worry about it in the moment. You are out like a light within a few seconds.

Clearinguptheclutter · 24/03/2026 20:10

I had my first ever at the age of 45, a few months ago

I was terrified

I totally loved it. I drifted off v quickly before I could try and fight it and came round ever so gently. I was worried about waking up and not knowing where I was but there was a lovely nurse talking to me and it was the total opposite of scary.

if I had the option again I’d take it

by far the worst thing was having to wait around nil by mouth until about 6pm (I think I was unlucky)

Goldengirl123 · 24/03/2026 20:09

I’ve had lots and love it. Go into a nice sleep then wake up when it’s all over. Don’t worry, you will be fine

RampantIvy · 24/03/2026 20:09

I have had 5 over the years.
When you wake up you feel like you have been asleep for 10 seconds.

Lifeisapeach · 24/03/2026 20:07

Only had it once for a small procedure. I found it incredibly relaxing. Best sleep I’ve ever had. Hope this helps.

SmokeySmokeyBacon · 24/03/2026 20:07

I am not enthusiastic about them either, but I am more scared of not having life-saving/life-improving surgery.
I am scared of the dentist too, but I still go because I am more scared of having no teeth.

Clefable · 24/03/2026 20:05

I had one two weeks ago. Don’t even remember being put to sleep. They put cannula in and the chap said he was going to give me a ‘pre-drink’. I said ‘okay’ and then I woke up in recovery! Was a bit groggy for 30 mins or so but then I had a sort of post-anaesthetic euphoria where I felt great and demolished a sandwich and cup of tea!

name0284629505 · 24/03/2026 20:05

I've been an anaesthetist since 2010 and I've never had anyone 'not wake up'! Hope that helps!