Preparing for Your Hysterectomy: What to Expect Before Surgery
Dr. Lauren Tabor recently outlined the process on Instagram.
September 4th, 2024
If you have an upcoming hysterectomy, being well-prepared can make all the difference in your experience and recovery. At our practice, we follow the Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) protocol, which is designed to promote faster healing, reduce stress on your body, and ensure you have a smoother recovery. Below is a step-by-step guide on what to do in the week leading up to your surgery, the day before, and the day of the procedure.
One Week Before Surgery: Setting Yourself Up for Success
1. Medical Clearance:
- Ensure you’ve completed all necessary pre-surgery tests and obtained medical clearance from your primary care physician. This typically includes lab work, EKGs, or other tests as directed by your doctor.
2. Review Your Medications:
- Discuss your current medications with your healthcare provider. You may need to stop taking certain medications, such as blood thinners, anti-inflammatory drugs, or herbal supplements, in the days leading up to your surgery.
3. Healthy Habits:
- Focus on eating a well-balanced diet rich in nutrients and staying hydrated. Avoid alcohol and smoking during this time, as they can interfere with your body’s ability to heal.
4. Exercise:
- Engage in light physical activity, such as walking or yoga, to keep your body strong and reduce stress. Maintaining movement in the days leading up to surgery can improve circulation and aid in recovery.
The Day Before Surgery: Preparing Your Body and Mind
1. Dietary Instructions:
- Follow the specific dietary guidelines provided by your surgeon. This often includes consuming only clear liquids and avoiding solid foods starting from the afternoon or evening before surgery.
2. Stay Hydrated:
- Drink plenty of clear fluids, such as water, herbal tea, or electrolyte drinks. Proper hydration is crucial for recovery and will help maintain your body’s balance during surgery.
3. Medications:
- Take any prescribed medications as instructed by your healthcare provider. Some medications may need to be taken even on the day before surgery.
4. Relax and Rest:
- It’s normal to feel anxious, but getting a good night’s sleep is key to feeling rested and ready. Consider practicing relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or gentle stretching to reduce anxiety.
The Day of Surgery: Ready for the Big Day
1. Fasting Instructions:
- Do not eat or drink anything the morning of your surgery, unless you have been given specific instructions by your doctor. This helps reduce the risk of complications from anesthesia.
2. Arrival:
- Plan to arrive at the hospital or surgical center about two hours before your scheduled surgery. This allows ample time for check-in and pre-surgery preparations.
3. Comfort and Personal Items:
- Wear loose, comfortable clothing to the hospital, and bring any necessary personal items such as identification, insurance information, and a list of medications you take.
4. Pre-Surgery Preparation:
- Once you arrive, you’ll be prepped for surgery by the medical team. This includes changing into a hospital gown, placing an IV, and meeting with your anesthesiologist to discuss anesthesia options and ask any last-minute questions.
At our practice, your safety and comfort are our top priorities. By following the ERAS protocol, we aim to minimize your pain and speed up your recovery, allowing you to get back to your daily life as smoothly as possible.
If you have any concerns or questions about your hysterectomy, feel free to reach out to us. We’re here to support you every step of the way.
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