When you go in for your hysterectomy you can expect to be staying in for anything from 3 to 7 day's, depending on the type of hyst, i.e. vaginal/incision.

You may find you are admitted the day before your op, depending on the hospital...here is a list of a few things you may want to do/pack or remember for you hysterectomy...

To Pack....

Nightshirt/nightie...easier than PJ's as a waistband may rub on your scar and it is easier to chance pad's or have examinations.

Plenty of knickers (don't let partner pack or you could end up in your best thong)!

Sanitary towels...even after a hyst you will bleed, this can be just mild or even heavy...and may last for a week or two after your hyst.

Slippers..ones you can slip on so you don't have to bend down.

Sock's & Dressing gown...my feet were so cold..and if you are given morphine after your hyst it can give you the shivers so a warm dressing gown too.

A watch...I hated not knowing the time & the hospital clock did not work.

A book..a few magazines to flick through..crosswords...walkman.

Obvious toiletries...take two flannels with you...and a towel.

Change for the phone & phone numbers you want... the nurses are usually pretty good about bringing the phone to you afterwards.

Wetwipes..I found these a god send...if you are having your ovaries removed the meno hits pretty soon...these kept me cool...and when I could not get for a wash..refreshed me a little.

Something comfy for the trip home...a high waistband or a dress is ideal.

A cushion or pillow for the journey home...you will still legally have to wear a seatbelt...the cushion laid over your lap will protect your scar from the belt and cushion any bumps on the journey.


Helpful tips

Arrange any childcare as soon as you get your date. It's best to let your children know that you may not see them for the first few days, believe me you will not be up to it, and it will be upsetting for them to see you laid up in hospital.

Arrange for someone to help out when you get home. You will not be able to do anything when you get home....even if you feel better and have a spurt of energy...DON'T....better to sit back and recover than suffer afterwards.

Even making a cuppa can take it out of you.

If you can't manage stairs and have a downstairs toilet......sleep downstairs, even if its just for the first few day's.

Although family want to come and see you and wish you well....make no plans for visitors...let them know when they can visit. It does take it out of you, and you will have your blue day's spent in tears..and the last thing you will want is Aunty sitting there telling you how bad you look etc.