What I Do to Prepare for Endometriosis Surgery

I was diagnosed with endometriosis via an exploratory laparoscopy surgery in 2011. I then received a six-hour excision surgery in 2013 and recently started volunteering as a support group leader for Endometriosis UK. I am awaiting my third surgery, and remain hopeful that this will improve my symptoms. I am equally excited as I am nervous!

Hopefully this will be my last surgery in a while (third time’s the charm!) but having been through this twice already, I have devised some useful lists which I thought I would share.

Before Surgery:

Research –Be sure to ask your doctor about any concerns.
Make lists – Yes, I have added making lists to this list, but remaining organized can keep you from unnecessary stress.
Make practical arrangements – This includes informing your workplace, ensuring child/pet care, making sure someone can look after you during recovery, etc.
Socialize (if possible) — Many of my friends may not be able to come visit me during recovery so I am hoping to catch up with them before surgery, so I don’t succumb to cabin fever afterwards.
Prepare your skin – I often end up with skin infections around the wound. This time I have made sure to stop fake tanning well in advance (the thought of product buildup near a surgical wound has put me off!) and I am showering in antibacterial soap.
Be healthy – Try to maintain as much of a healthy lifestyle as possible to aid recovery and reduce negative side effects of anesthetic.
Arrange post-op meals – plenty of soft foods and prepped meals that can be quickly heated up.
Arrange post-op comforts – Stools softeners, painkillers, clean bedding, comfy PJs, big pants and possibly a bedside sick bowl.
Relax — This is easier said than done, but stress will not help your body in the long run. In the week running up to surgery I plan to do lots of yoga and book a facial.

During Surgery:

Essentials to Bring:

Dressing gown
Slippers
Phone and charger
Reading material — you may be waiting around
Any medications

Overnight Bag:

An outfit change — Things may get bloody.
Moisturizer — I use a tinted BB cream so I feel like I have some makeup on.
Lip balm
Body spray — This can be useful to cover up any embarrassing odors, but be considerate to your hospital roomies!
Toothbrush and toothpaste
Dry shampoo
Wet wipes — Bring ones that are safe to use on any body part, so there’s no need to bring separate face wipes.
Sanitary towels
And don’t forget to keep a cushion in the car, to go between your belly and seat belt for the ride home!

After Surgery:

DVDs/Netflix subscription — Don’t do what I did and watch the entire “Orange is the New Black” series before surgery.
Antibacterial soap, to be used in place of regular shower gel
Herbal teas that help with digestion, relaxation and pain
Soft food
Stool softeners
A stool for the toilet — Raising the feet a little can take off added pressure. I just use an old shoe box.
A designated driver willing to run errands and take you to your doctor

I hope that helps! Please share your surgery tips!

Editor’s note: Any medical information included is based on a personal experience. For questions or concerns regarding health, please consult a doctor or medical professional.

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