Laparoscopic Hysterectomy: Your Experience

Talk to your healthcare provider about how to get ready for your surgery. Your healthcare providers will talk with you about what to expect as surgery draws near. Keep in mind that your experience may differ from that of other women you know.

Before the day of surgery

Your instructions may include the following:

• Stop taking certain medicines (including aspirin) for as many days before surgery as directed.

• If you smoke, stop as long as possible before surgery.

• Do not eat or drink anything after midnight the night before surgery. This includes chewing gum and mints.

• Arrange ahead of time for a ride home from the hospital or surgery center.

• If it is prescribed, take medicine to clean out your bowels the day before surgery. Your healthcare provider can give you more details about this.

On the day of surgery

You’ll change into a gown. You’ll then be prepped for your procedure:

• The anesthesiologist or nurse anesthetist will discuss anesthesia with you and answer any questions you have.

• Some pubic hair may be shaved.

• An IV (intravenous) line will be put into your arm or hand. This line supplies you with medicines and fluids before, during, and after surgery.

• You may be given medicine that helps you relax. You will then be given general anesthesia to make you sleep and keep you free from pain during surgery.