Struggling

[Amj555]

Hi,

I've got my first laparoscopy in less than two weeks, I'm soo nervous

Anyone got any advise to help? How I can prepare for it, and recover?

Thank you

[Lizzielizzielizzie]

Get some meals in the freezer so you don't need to worry about them, and make sure all your cleaning is done in advance so you're not sitting looking at the dust afterward! Peppermint tea or peppermint cordial for any bloating. A comfy nighty to wear in hospital and during recovery (I did have some loose joggers as well but was comfiest in no waistband at all).

If you don't already have one, a plug in heat pad (you can get them from amazon) is great for any pain afterward and means you don't have to keep getting up and changing the water in a hot water bottle.

Get some things in to keep you occupied (box sets/books/magazines) and make sure friends and family know you are having an op so they can be on standby to come and visit when you're recovering.

Above all, don't push yourself too hard afterward. If you need more time off, see the GP and get a fit note for longer.

[Amj555 in reply to Lizzielizzielizzie]

Thank you so much!

I was told yesterday about peppermint helps so will make sure I have some of those!

Are u usually out the same day?

That sounds good I'll look for a head pad now!

Thank you

[Hidden]

A heat pad for the gas pain and an ice pack for your stomach. Be prepared to be laid up in bed for the first few days afterwards. If you've got children, arrange child care for them. You won't be too hungry but make sure you've got some foods handy that are easy on your stomach. You'll just want to sleep, sleep, sleep for a few days. Give your body lots of rest.

[Amj555 in reply to Hidden]

Thank you!

How long does it take for the stitches to heal?

I'm self employed so work isn't a problem just won't earn any money!

How long would u say for a full recovery?

Thank you

[Hidden in reply to Amj555]

The recovery and healing is unique for everyone. It entirely depends on if you have tissue excised, how much etc. I had quite a bit removed and it took 2 weeks to feel about 80% recovered. The lingering fatigue and a slight ache (like period cramps) took a further 1 week. Once my first post op menses ended I felt much better. But it was a LOT heavier than usual and lasted a good 3-4 days longer than usual.

I'm now 1 month post op and I feel back to normal and healed.

[Amj555 in reply to Hidden]

Aww that's really good thank you!

Yeah they don't know if I have endo until they go in,

I'm hoping it won't take too long but can't rush it or will take longer!

Thank you

[Lizzielizzielizzie in reply to Amj555]

I had a week and a half off work but was very tired for longer.

Oh and the whole "not very hungry" thinks didn't work for me... but then I'm always hungry even if I'm nauseous!!

[Elmo1986]

I would add a pillow for the journey home (to cover your tummy where the seatbelt would dig in) and some laxatives! With having surgery and the pain killers, constipation is very common. No body told me this so alongside recovering, I was dealing with terrible constipation as well - I ended up back in hospital!

[Hidden]

Hey

I've asked similar things on my page with many helpful responses and also have a 2 week day-to-day recovery update as well. It may give you some idea of what to expect (it won't be identical as all surgeries are different). If you have any specific questions feel free to message me and I will do my best to help x