Hysterectomy Surgery - Tips to Follow Before Your Operation

Hysterectomy surgery is a major operation but it is also a very common one. By following a few simple rules you can prepare for your hysterectomy operation and ensure that you are giving yourself the best possible chance to recover quickly without complications and pain.

The first thing that usually takes place before a hysterectomy is a visit to the hospital for a pre-operation assessment. During the assessment the following will take place:

• You will have a blood test.
• Your weight will be recorded.
• You will have an ECG
  
• You will be given the opportunity to speak to a physiotherapist who will give you exercises to do after your surgery (for example, how to get out of bed the correct way).
• You will be able to talk to a doctor about your forthcoming operation.
• You will be given information leaflets all about the surgery you are having and how to look after yourself - in particular, dos and don'ts after the operation.
• You will be given some anti-bacterial wash. Make sure that you ask for this if it is not offered.

It is advisable before any surgery to stop drinking alcohol and smoking for at least a week. The fitter you are, the quicker your recovery.·

Make sure that you do ALL household chores that you think will not wait BEFORE your operation as you will not be able to do them afterwards. The more organized you are, the easier your life will be.

Four to five days before your hysterectomy surgery wash yourself every day and wash your hair at least once with anti-bacterial wash. Use clean towels after every shower and get into clean bed sheets each time. This is time consuming but well worth it as the anti-bacterial wash will remove any bacteria from your skin which in turn will decrease the risk of infection.

Just before going into hospital for your operation, assemble the following items to take with you:

• A new hairbrush to avoid getting germs from the old one and a small mirror.
• Toothbrush and toothpaste.
• A new facecloth; wash cream; face cream and deodorant.
• Clean towels.
• Clean nightclothes for each day spent in hospital.
• Pants and pads as you may experience a little bleeding after the operation.
• A small travel bottle of anti-bacterial gel. This is useful while in bed to clean your hands before meals.
• Anti-bacterial wipes for use on toilet handles.
• A small packet of mints/sweet/snacks and drinks in case you get peckish!
• A small amount of change.
• An IPod if you have one. This can help when you are trying to get to sleep as wards can be noisy.
• A mobile phone. This can be used on silent mode.
• Loose clothing to come home in as you may be quite swollen.

Following these simple tips can help to reduce the worry of going into hospital for hysterectomy surgery and ensure that your stay there is as comfortable and stress free as possible.