Packing my hospital bag for a hysterectomy. What do I need?

[FrankenCat]

Complete hysterectomy, they're taking the lot.
My op is Thursday, I might have to go in tomorrow night before the op, or possibly early Thursday morning. I won't know until tomorrow evening when they phone to let me know.
I'll either be staying 1 or 2 nights post op, depending on how I am.

I've got:
1 set of pyjamas - pre op night
2 nighties
Socks
Knickers
Bras
Dressing gown
Slippers
Book

What else should I take? I've never had surgery before where I've needed to stay in overnight. And the only other time I've stayed overnight was when I had my first DS, and I was a bit preoccupied to need anything.

What did/would you take with you.

Thank you.

I'm shitting myself with nerves.
Not literally. But ridiculously nervous.

I think mine will just take advantage that I am a giant, unmoving hot water bottle and I wont be able to shift them!

@Ohdeariedear haha that's ok, you've actually just reminded me that I ought to have a laxative. I'm a bit scared about my first poo. I'll go and take one now.

I had total abdomInal hysterectomy last year ( plus ovaries) don't take any medication. You won't feel menopause symptoms for a few days at the very least- and they will give you all the painkillers you need- remember to ask for them if you need more (stronger ones). Loose clothing is a must. My Toilet tips: don't use a laxative, you don't want to be going more frequently, you just need it to be very soft when you do, so use dulcoease, stool softener. When you feel you need to poo, a rolled up towel held against the pelvic area really helps take pressure off- don't push!! Don't lift ANYTHING afterwards. Good luck, you got this.

@Strictlyhull thank you, I've got lactulose and paediatric movicol here. I was going to try the paediatric movicol seeing as it's for kids. So thought it would be a little bit gentler.

@Frankencat I am doing ok thanks, almost back to some sort of normality, everyday getting stronger. I had to inject the anticoagulant injections for about 7 days and managed ok and had about 2 doses of paracetamol with Codeine at night to help with the pain but nothing in the last 10 days. I am trying to go for a walk every day (weather permitting) and although some days I am a bit tired I am generally ok. I found that eating smaller meals has helped. I am not on hrt due to my age (54) but so far so good with little or no menopause symptoms. The hospital told me a tip after showering to dab the incision gently with a clean towel and use the hairdryer on cool to help dry the area and this has worked well for me. I am even well enough to contemplate going back to work on light duties (desk job) next week and see how this goes. All the best for a continued steady recovery OP and I am looking forward to being one of those who say “its the best thing they have ever done”

@izzyb6488 I'm hoping to be one of those women too! Wow! That's amazing that you're feeling up to going back to work so soon. Just make sure you really do take it easy!!! I'm a carer and even using the equipment it's a very manual job so I won't be going back until the minimum recommended 12 weeks as I don't want something happening and it all going wrong.

@FrankenCat I am lucky to have a very supportive team around me and am looking forward to having something else to think about tbh as I am more likely to overstretch myself at home wanting to be normal. its a great excuse not to be doing the housework which is more what is driving me crazy. My DH and DS do their best but the temptation to do it myself is high. I have told myself that if I can go back to work then I don’t have to look at the chores and hopefully persuade my DH to have some help in for now

I've just come out of the gynae ward after a non surgical procedure. Had to have a shower and there was no hair dryer as it had broken- wasn't really bothered as was too poorly to mind but would defo take one next time. Was thinking I will buy one for the ward when I get time. I was a middle of the night emergency and All the toiletries were what the nurses bring back from hols.

My essentials- Also second windeze and a gentle laxative, extra long phone cable, a pen (for menu) maybe paper if you need to write down what docs say- slippers and socks- many pairs of pants- easy to get on shoes for coming home- comfy trousers and top- Sanitary towels- a face towel- face cream-hair bobbles-water bottle

Leave all jewellery and purses and cards at home. Maybe take one card and cash for treats?

All the best wishes for your op OP