Preparing for Surgery
If you have been scheduled for a gynaecological procedure, it is normal to have questions about the logistics, the recovery, and what to expect from the hospital experience. I want you to feel prepared and confident. Below are the most common questions my patients ask as they prepare for their surgical journey.
1. How should I prepare in the days leading up to surgery?
Preparation starts about a week before your procedure.
Medication Review: We will discuss which medications to stop. Generally, blood thinners and certain herbal supplements (like Fish Oil or Vitamin E) should be paused 7–10 days prior.
Fasting (NBM): You must not eat or drink anything (including water, tea, or gum) for at least 6 hours before your surgery time. This is a critical safety requirement for your anaesthetic.
Smoking/Vaping: I strongly recommend stopping at least 2 weeks prior to surgery to improve your body's healing capacity and reduce the risk of chest infections.
Ozempic/GLP 1 : Please don’t forget to inform myself or the anaesthetist if you are taking these medications. You may be asked to cease these 2 weeks prior and may require additional fasting times
2. What should I pack for my hospital stay?
Even if you are scheduled for a "day procedure," it is helpful to be prepared.
Comfortable Clothing: Loose-fitting pants (like high-waisted leggings or a dress) that won't press against your abdominal incisions.
Sanitary Pads: Bring a pack of overnight pads. We recommend avoiding tampons or menstrual cups for the first 6 weeks post-surgery.
Personal Items: Toiletries, any regular medications in their original packaging, and your phone charger.
3. What is "Gas Pain" and how do I manage it?
During laparoscopic (keyhole) surgery, your abdomen is inflated with Carbon Dioxide (CO2) to give the surgeon a clear view. While we remove as much as possible, a small amount can remain and irritate the phrenic nerve, causing referred pain in your shoulders.
The Remedy: The best way to dissipate this gas is gentle movement. Walking around the ward or your home helps the body absorb the gas. Heat packs on the shoulders and peppermint tea can also provide relief.
4. When can I drive again?
You cannot drive for at least 24 hours after receiving a general anaesthetic. Beyond that, the rule of thumb is that you must be able to:
Perform an emergency stop without hesitation or pain.
Twist your torso to check your blind spots.
Be completely off any strong "Schedule 8" pain medications. For minor procedures, this is usually 3–5 days; for major surgery (like a hysterectomy), it may be 2–4 weeks. Always check with your insurance provider as well.
5. How do I care for my incisions?
Most laparoscopic incisions are closed with dissolvable stitches and covered with waterproof dressings.
Showering: You can usually shower the day after surgery. Pat the dressings dry with a clean towel; do not rub them.
When to Call Me: If you notice increasing redness, heat, foul-smelling discharge, or if the skin around the incision becomes very painful, please contact the clinic immediately.
6. When can I return to work and exercise?
This is highly individual and depends on the complexity of your surgery:
Minor (Diagnostic Laparoscopy/Hysteroscopy): 3–5 days off work; light exercise after 1 week.
Major (Hysterectomy): 4–6 weeks off work; no heavy lifting (over 5kg) for 6 weeks. Walking is the best early exercise for all surgical patients.
7. When can I resume sexual intimacy?
For any surgery involving the cervix or uterus, I generally recommend waiting 6 weeks before vaginal intercourse. This allows the internal "cuff" or incisions to heal completely and prevents the risk of infection.
Expert Surgical Support: From Pre-Op to Recovery
Surgery is a significant event, and I am committed to making the process as transparent and stress-free as possible. As a highly qualified gynaecological surgeon, I don't just focus on the procedure itself; I focus on your total recovery. I listen to your concerns, offer alternatives where possible, and provide a meticulously individualized surgical plan.