On my own before surgery

[Newusername0]

Help!! Looking for some reassurance. I’m sitting here waiting to go down for surgery, gallbladder removal! My husband had to go because they don’t accept babies (I didn’t realise this) so he’s trying to get a babysitter at short notice but it’s looking likely I’ll be going down on my own shortly!

Im crapping myself. Any positive stories from anyone would be amazing! What to expect, how I’m going to be fine 🤣

A hand hold would be lovely!

I had surgery last year and everyone had to go in on their own, I had a 5 hour wait before going down which was nerve wracking but all was good. Once they start moving you along and taking details etc you don't have time to worry. Good luck 💐

No experience of the op @Newusername0 but happy to lend a had hold. I had to go for tests last week by myself and it’s scary sometimes doing things on your own. You will be fine and soon you’ll feel so much better and have more energy and I suspect less pain so you can play with your little one.

I recently went for surgery and they didn't allow anyone to have anyone with them, a couple of the ladies were in for gall bladder surgery. I was having breast cancer removed. It was fine, I just called when I was ready to be picked up after surgery.

Similarly, in 2024 I had to have a perianal abscess drained under GA and I was alone.

You can do this! I hope your surgery goes well and your recovery too.

My DH had his gall bladder removed, the surgery was tricky so they had to do an open surgery but his recovery went well and his quality of life has improved massively since the surgery. I hope it all goes well for you and you’re being well taken care of. Good luck.

I was on my own before my gallbladder removal because of the pandemic. I was feeling very worked up before - but it was all fine, felt much better afterwards. 💐💐

On my own before hysterectomy and a couple of eye ops. I always take the chance to read my book in peace and quiet! Biggest problem is getting hungry due to being nil by mouth. I find having someone else around actually makes me more nervous as I'm always worried about being a nuisance to them.

All the best.

I was on my own for a knee operation, my husband dropped me off at 6 am and collected me at 8 pm. Surgery was at 1 pm. I was bored but luckily I was able to read so I spent the day with three books.

I suppose we are all made differently, but I absolutely hate having someone with me before procedures/surgery. They are usually bored senseless and/or more worried than I am! I much prefer the relative calm of only needing to look out for myself. I usually watch youtube or netflix while waiting, in between being prodded, poked, being asked questions and signing consents etc.

I am sure you will be ok. Are there other patients around, sometimes people like to chat, but not all either. Scroll on your phone and do something mindless like that. Best of luck.

I’ve only ever been on my own prior to surgeries, including gallbladder. You’ll be fine.

I’ve had about a dozen surgeries and apart from one where I’d been advised to say goodbye to my parents and partner have always been on my own - prefer it that way

Was on my own both times. Once on the ward as was already admitted and thought it would be first thing. Second as had to be there at 7am and DH was at home with DC.

Was not as nervous the second time round even though it was a bigger surgery.

Hope all goes well.

I don't get the issue with being on your own, tbh. When I had my gallbladder out, my husband was nowhere near (quite rightly!) ..... staff do not need relatives clogging up their working spaces. Everything is so quick anyway, you say hi to the anaesthetist and then, before you know it, you're waking up in Recovery having had the best sleep of your life!

I've only had one surgery and that was the gallbladder removal. I was scared, and it was nice to have my DH there, so I understand that. However, now that I've had that kind of surgery I wouldn't mind being on my own. My DH has had a lot of surgeries and wants me there. I am glad to do it, but I don't feel the need of it myself.

Sorry, got caught up in my own story, meant to say good luck!

Sending you good thoughts Op, you've got this!
Think of something really nice that you'd like to do when it's over, a treat for yourself big or small.

I am having gallbladder surgery in a few weeks. Let me know how u went! My husband is coming with me. And I’m grateful for that

Read a book, magazine etc. It’ll be done before you know it. You don’t need anyone with you. Good luck

I was left on my own when I had a ten hour operation for breast cancer and reconstruction, and for four other operations/procedures since then. Each one was fine and it was far less stressful for me to be on my own than having to worry about my husband faffing around and getting in everyone’s way!

I’m surprised that you thought you could bring a baby in with you!