Frequently Asked Questions

Surgery  « Back
1.How do I prepare for surgery?
2.How do I take care of myself at home?
3.What can I expect during my hospital stay?
4.What should I expect for recovery after surgery?
5.When should I contact my doctor if I am having issues after my surgery?
1. How do I prepare for surgery?
You may feel anxious as you prepare for surgery. Knowing what to expect can help you feel more in control. Talk to your provider about how to get ready for surgery. Also be sure you understand the risks of surgery.

Before the Day of Surgery:
  • Stop taking some medications (including aspirin) for a certain number of days before surgery.
  • If you smoke, stop as long as possible before surgery.
  • Do not eat or drink anything after midnight before surgery. This includes chewing gum and mints. You may brush your teeth but do not swallow the water when you rinse.
  • Arrange ahead of time for an adult to drive you home
  • If it is prescribed, take medication to clean out your bowels the day before surgery. Your provider can give you more details about this.
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2. How do I take care of myself at home?
  • To avoid constipation, eat fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Drink plenty of water. Your provider may suggest that you use a laxative or a mild stool softener.
  • Ask friends and family to help with chores and errands while you recover.
  • Do not lift anything over 10 pounds to avoid straining your incisions.
  • Do you get your incisions wet until your provider says it's okay to do so.
  • Do not put anything in the vagina until your provider says it's safe to do so. This includes using tampons and having sexual intercourse.
  • Schedule follow-up visits with your provider.
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3. What can I expect during my hospital stay?
During your stay in the hospital, the staff will look after you and help you prepare to go home.
  • You will be asked to walk around to help improve breathing and blood flow.
  • You will be given medication for any pain you may have. Tell your nurse if you are uncomfortable.
  • Incisions may leak a small amount of pinkish fluid for the first day or two.
  • Spotting from the vagina may occur. If so, ask a nurse for a pad.
  • You will be shown how to clear your lungs to prevent infections.
  • The catheter may be left in place for a short time after surgery. You'll be checked to make sure you can urinate without the catheter before you go home.
  • Your meals can include soild food as soon as you feel ready.
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4. What should I expect for recovery after surgery?
After the procedure is finished, you'll spend a few hours in the recovery area. You may feel drowsy or nauseated from the anesthesia. Shoulder pain due to the gas used to expand your abdomen is also common. Be aware, the pain may last for one to three days. Your throat may be sore and you may be hoarse due to the breathing tube used during surgery.
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5. When should I contact my doctor if I am having issues after my surgery?
Contact our office at (920) 729-7105 if you have:
  • Chills or a fever of 100.4F or higher, lasting more than four hours.
  • Bright red vaginal bleeding or a smelly discharge
  • Difficulty urinating or burning during urination
  • Severe abdominal pain or bloating
  • A red, swollen or draining incision site
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